Although our focus for the previous 2 years was thoughtful, the staff felt it was not as clear as it could be and that the connections to the curriculum could be more explicit.

We used the lunch bunch to scan and then we met with staff to see how the focus could be more clear. It was decided to make a clear and explicit connection to the curriculum, using curriculum language. In this way our focus aligns with the curriculum using Core Compentency language.

We refocused our focus to the following:

At Steves, we are focussed on strengthening students' sense of self and their place in the world. We will use the Personal & Social Core Competency as our guide, with a particular on the following facets of the Personal and Social Core Competency:

Building Relationships - "Students build and maintain diverse, positive peer and intergenerational relationships. They are aware and respectful of others’ needs and feelings and share their own in appropriate ways. They adjust their words and actions to care for their relationships."

Contributing to Community and Caring for the Environment - Students develop awareness of and take responsibility for their social, physical, and natural environments by working independently and collaboratively for the benefit of others, communities, and the environment. They are aware of the impact of their decisions, actions, and footprint. They advocate for and act to bring about positive change."

Resolving Problems - "Students identify and develop an appreciation for different perspectives on issues. They show empathy, disagree respectfully, and create space for others to use their voices. They generate, use, and evaluate strategies to resolve problems."

Valuing Diversity -  "Students value diversity, defend human rights, advocate for issues, and interact ethically with others. They are inclusive in their language and behaviour and recognize that everyone has something to contribute. Their approach to inclusive relationships exemplifies commitment to developing positive communities."