Student-Led Retreats
Changing the Deep Culture of Your School
The intention this a retreat is for the students to have fun and do deep, meaningful work that will help them make their school a better place to learn. The students will learn a vocabulary that they remember and that the adults in the school can use to help them quickly get back on track.
In a one or two day training for upper classmen, students learn the attitudes and the skills needed to run a retreat. The oldest students train younger students to help them train even younger students. The school is left with lots of positive leaders and a climate of caring and courage.
Adult and student participants will learn how to:
- Design a one day, student-led retreat.
- Train upperclassmen to run retreats.
- Teach character education in a fun, experiential manner.
- Give students the skills they need to increase their "response-ability".
The retreat follows a simple, effective format: energizers, skits, and large group presentations followed by small group debriefings led by students. At the end of the day students are asked to take a stand for what they will do differently to create an atmosphere of support and encouragement.
"I have heard nothing but great reviews from staff and administrators. In fact, on Tuesday, our 8th grade state writing assessment began and ALL the teachers wore their 'lucky' hats and the kids loved it! We will be looking for opportunties to invite you back!"
—Bill Stewart, principal
Testimonial from Student Leader 