Acmetonia students build sense of belonging, community with new program

Students at Acmetonia Elementary School not only have homework, they also have house work.

Under the “House System,” students are assigned to one of five groups, or houses. House meetings are held each month, and students collaborate with their peers to work on various community-building activities, said Rebecca Garbisch, school counselor.

This week, students made Valentine’s Day cards for residents at Amber Woods at HarmarVillage. Previous meetings have featured ice-breaker and social skills activities.

Since its installation in the fall, the program has brought a better sense of community, character and academic development, school leaders say.

“It stemmed from a desire to provide a fun, community-based, positive behavior activity for students while at the same time create something that would give a good reason for students to feel excited about coming to school,” Garbisch said.

Students also try to earn house points for their team, which can be awarded through academic success, positive behavior, and attendance.

“For elementary students, being part of a house can help to build a positive connection to their school,” Principal Greg Heavner said. “Having mixed-grade groups allows older students to form leadership skills and gain experience in mentoring. Younger students benefit from the experience and encouragement of students in higher grades.

“We are always looking to build a stronger school culture, and our House System is part of that positive school culture recipe.”

Sixth grader Faith Browo said the program has improved students’ behavior and created a sense of belonging at the school.

“It’s a good teamwork thing — to learn how to get along with each other,” she said.