Academics » BARR (Building Assets, Reducing Risks)

BARR (Building Assets, Reducing Risks)

Fostering Relationships for Success

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As BARR schools, we focus on building meaningful relationships with students to understand and support their unique needs for success. The BARR model has eight strategies for creating intentional connections among students and educators.

Eight BARR Strategies

  1. Focus on the Whole Student
    At Hiawatha Academies, we recognize that students bring their lives with them. Building relationships enables educators to address academic, emotional, social, and physical needs, ensuring students are ready and able to learn.
  2. Provide Professional Development
    We believe in the continuous growth of our educators. Regular hands-on training and coaching ensure that our staff feels comfortable and supported in implementing the BARR model effectively.
  3. Social Emotional Learning (I-Times and U-Times)
    Staff facilitates a weekly 30-minute Social Emotional Learning lesson. This time helps students develop essential life skills that contribute to fostering meaningful relationships.
  4. Create Cohorts
    Cohorts are instrumental in building connections among staff, between staff and students, and among students. Breaking into smaller groups enables educators to cultivate meaningful connections, promoting more effective teaching and learning.
  5. Cohort Teacher Team Meetings
    Teachers meet weekly to discuss students from a strength-based perspective. This collaborative approach allows staff to identify struggling students, implement effective interventions, and identify those who may benefit from acceleration.
  6. Risk Review Meetings
    Students who are identified as struggling enter a structured risk review process. This process helps teachers develop a targeted action plan to support the students' journey to success.
  7. Partner with Families in Student Learning
    It is essential to recognize families as active partners in a student's education. Our educators actively communicate with families, fostering a collaborative approach to student learning.
  8. Engage Administrators
    Each BARR school is part of a connected community that networks with one another. This collaboration allows for exchanging ideas on effective school leadership and student engagement strategies.

At Hiawatha Academies, BARR is more than just a model; it's a commitment to creating an environment where relationships are at the core of every success story. Join us as we build assets and reduce risks, ensuring that every student's journey is fulfilled and accomplished.

 

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