Steves has used the Acronym S.P.A.R.K. for many years as a teaching tool for teaching social responsibility and a vehicle for learning conversations when things are not going well. S.P.A.R.K. stands for:

Safe

Peaceful Problem Solving

Accepting

Respectful/Responsiible

Kind

At the beginning of the year we had a S.P.A.R.K. week where students were led through several activities in grade groups to learn and reinforce this common language. Through the year we have had assemblies and events to remind our community of this comittment. 

Moving forward we need to create a more explicit connection between our S.P.A.R.K acronym and our focus, which uses different language from the Core Compentencies. Comming back together as a whole school in 2021 may be the opportunity to update how we have these conversations based on the following language:

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.