Our Philosophy
At St. Xavier's we believe that each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in
which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. As educators we help students meet their fullest
potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas.
Developing a curriculum around student interests fosters intrinsic motivation and stimulates the passion to learn. One way to take
learning in a direction relevant to student interest is to invite student dialogue about the lessons and units of study.
Given the opportunity for input, students generate ideas and set goals that make for much richer activities than we could have created
or imagined ourselves. When students have ownership in the curriculum, they are motivated to work hard and master the skills necessary
to reach their goals.
"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." ― Mahatma Gandhi.
While guidance from a teacher is important to keeping kids on task and motivated, allowing students to have some choice and control
over what happens in the classroom is actually one of the best ways to keep them engaged It can be very frustrating for students to
complete an assignment or even to behave in class if there aren't clearly defined objectives.
Students want and need to know what is expected of them in order to stay motivated to work.
At the beginning of the year clear objectives, rules, and expectations of students are laid out so that there is no confusion and students
have goals to work towards.
While students do need to understand that there are consequences to their actions, far more motivating for students than threats are positive
reinforcements.
When teachers create a safe, supportive environment for students, affirming their belief in a student's abilities rather than laying out the
consequences of not doing things, students are much more likely to get and stay motivated to do their work. At the end of the day, students
will fulfill the expectations that the adults around them communicate, so focus on can, not can't.
Our Motivation
While guidance from a teacher is important to keeping kids on task and motivated, allowing students to have some choice and control
over what happens in the classroom is actually one of the best ways to keep them engaged It can be very frustrating for students to
complete an assignment or even to behave in class if there aren't clearly defined objectives.
Students want and need to know what is expected of them in order to stay motivated to work.
At the beginning of the year clear objectives, rules, and expectations of students are laid out so that there is no confusion and students
have goals to work towards.
While students do need to understand that there are consequences to their actions, far more motivating for students than threats are positive
reinforcements.
When teachers create a safe, supportive environment for students, affirming their belief in a student's abilities rather than laying out the
consequences of not doing things, students are much more likely to get and stay motivated to do their work. At the end of the day, students
will fulfill the expectations that the adults around them communicate, so focus on can, not can't.
Pushing yourself shows you what you're capable of. When you feel like you can't go any further, don't back down — just hang on. You'll be surprised at how tough you really are !
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