House Systems, Traditions, and Community

House System & Community Building

Creating a Sense of Community and Voice

  • Teachers love integrating social studies and humanities into the house system.
  • Students have a voice in shaping the house.
  • Leadership and volunteer opportunities are created based on student input.
  • The house is considered "their house," emphasizing student ownership.
  • Unique traditions emerge from student interests and trends, distinguishing each house.

Celebrating Individuality and Personality

  • The focus is on celebrating individual personalities within the house.
  • The house should be a safe space for students to express themselves.
  • Imagery and symbols are used to create connections and a sense of belonging.
  • Even during COVID, masks and accessories were used to enhance connections and show house spirit.

Roles and Recognition

  • The "lieutenant" role is given to a student who consistently helps the house, recognizing their hard work and dedication.
  • Past photos and stories of students are shared to show their growth and development.
  • House leaders set the tone and represent the house's values.
  • Emphasis on the importance of connecting current students with alumni.

Traditions and Events

  • Photoshoots are used to build students' pride and esteem, allowing them to showcase their growth.
  • Parents are actively involved in creating special events and surprises for the students.
  • Family involvement is a key aspect of the house, with families invited to events and celebrations.
  • Cheers and dances are integrated into family events and holidays.
  • House leaders are celebrated with custom-designed apparel.

Symbols and History

  • Every symbol, language, and the crest are part of the house's story and history.
  • Students need to understand the meaning behind these symbols.
  • Having a deep history provides a source of inspiration for ongoing house activities and cheers.
  • Tributes are made to past houses using the symbols, evolving over time with different interpretations.

Student-Led Initiatives

  • Students take initiative in creating events and giving back to the community.
  • The house gives back to the community through student-led ideas and initiatives.
  • Alumni are recognized and invited back to connect with current students.
  • The house participates in school-wide events, like providing encouragement during midterms and finals.

Civic Engagement and Leadership

  • Students participate in voting for their house leaders, teaching them about civics and the importance of their voices.
  • They learn how to write speeches and campaign for leadership positions.
  • The characteristics represented by each house are values that all students should embody.
  • Graduation speeches and stories of alumni are shared to inspire current students.

Overcoming Fear and Building Community

  • The message is to encourage students to act despite their fears.
  • The house serves as a place of community and support for students.

Legacy and Tribute

  • Tributes are made to past houses, acknowledging their contributions and legacy.
  • The Trap 10 house was recognized for their contribution to the institution.

Evolution of Traditions

  • Traditions evolve over time, with student input and creativity.
  • Spirit Day was elevated from simple t-shirts and colors to a theatrical production.
  • Themed breakfasts and family cheers became beloved traditions.

Giving Back and Community Service

  • Instilling sense of giving back to community.
  • Instilling the understanding that to whom much is given, much is required.

Academic Integration

  • Integrating social studies and academic elements into house activities and events.
  • Bringing in elements of history and culture.

Student Voice and Agency

  • Emphasizing that students' ideas and energy are valued and wanted.
  • Taking student feedback by giving them options and chances to suggest things.

Noteworthy Examples and Metaphors

  • Whisper Song Remix: The Yin Yang Twins Whisper song to make cheer.
  • Green Eggs and Ham: Reading Green Eggs and Ham and having green breakfasts for new kids, involved pancakes and waffles. Showcasing parent contribution to the initiative.
  • Family Cheers: Families performing cheers during the holidays.
  • Bendy Blessings: Giving treats to the school for Saint Patty's Day.

Numerical and Statistical References

  • Class of '97: Been teaching eighth grade since 1997.
  • 2012: Starting year at the institution.
  • 2013: Jared suggesting the Green Eggs & Ham read for all new kids.
  • 2015 : Students took all the symbols and taught each other the significance.
  • 2016 : 2016 school trip
  • 2020 Class going to South Africa.
  • 2020 : Pandemic year, schools shutting down due to covid.
  • 2021 : Trees doing battle rap against another house.
  • 2023 and 2024 sweaters assigned to new alumnus.
  • 2027; Doing encouragement with dry ice and sherbet.
  • 2029; The Breakfast event