An Achievable Dream puts a twist on traditional parent-teacher conferences. Teachers encourage Dreamers to take ownership of their learning and become facilitators during student- or Dreamer-led conferences. They engage their families in transparent conversations about their social, academic and moral progress. An Achievable Dream focuses on the whole child through social-emotional and character development and a strong emphasis on relationships.
At the beginning of the school year, students are given data notebooks so they can record their progress, accomplishments and areas of improvement. Teachers involve Dreamers in a goal-setting process, giving them autonomy to decide the pathways toward their achievements. This also provides additional opportunities for teachers to connect with each child and differentiate future instruction.
An Achievable Dream strives to instill the principles of self-evaluation and reflection, skills necessary to become successful in the world. Through the process of student-led conferences, Dreamers are held accountable for their work. They self-reflect, track and monitor their goals, taking ownership of their learning.
Belinda Flucker, a kindergarten teacher at An Achievable Dream Academy, said, “It reaffirms what you have been trying to achieve in class: independence, oral skills, responding to questions and staying on topic.”
Families are invited to hear their child’s learning experience from their Dreamers firsthand. Dreamers facilitate discussions about their peer interactions, academic challenges, celebrations and goals for the school year alongside their teacher. “It gives their voices power. They are active participants in their educational journey,” said Terra Harris, principal of An Achievable Dream Academy.
Speaking Green is one of An Achievable Dream’s social rotations, exposing students to standard business English, etiquette and speaking practices such as eye contact, speaking clearly, providing evidence and negotiating. Dreamers build their confidence by applying these skills that will transcend their academics into their future professional networks.
“I could see my daughter’s improvement, especially in speaking loudly and clearly in front of a group. I am proud of her growth,” said a kindergarten parent.
Family relationships are critical to our educational approach. Involving them in these discussions, they can develop an in-depth understanding of our social and emotional learning curriculum and our Dreamers’ standards for success.
Mrs. Scott, a teacher at An Achievable Dream, shared: “Families are attentive and supportive during the conferences, interacting with their Dreamers with praises and motivation.”
The conferences provide students with the leadership and professional skills that will prepare them for their future careers as productive citizens. At An Achievable Dream Middle and High School, corporate partners participate in the “What it Takes” program designed to expose students to career paths while teaching the skills needed to succeed in the workforce. Through the “What it Takes” program, An Achievable Dream partners with community organizations like W.M. Jordan Company.
John R. Lawson, II, executive chairman at W.M. Jordan Company, shared: “It is very rewarding to work with students who have structure and discipline in their lives through the model of the AAD program and are as committed as we are to increasing the quality of life in our community.”
Student-led conferences benefit our Dreamers in school and after they graduate by giving them a voice and motivating them to excel in their education, as well as preparing them for their future employment. Students are more likely to achieve when involved in their learning process.
For more information, visit achievabledream.org.
