Two Month Reflections

Twice a year our students have meetings to review their progress and discuss their transition back to their home schools.  In the fall, these meetings are generally teacher-led, but the students do have an opportunity to demonstrate their growth in both reading and technology use and reflect on their time thus far at Sagonaska.  In the spring, these meetings are student-led and the focus is on the student advocating for what they need to be in place for them in their regular school in order to be successful. 

The first round of review meetings are happening right now, and our students are sharing some very positive and honest messages about how Sagonaska is different from their home school.  I asked the students to write down their thoughts about Sag to share with prospective students and families that may be interested in the program.  Here is what some of our secondary students had to say:

Haley

Sagonaska is different than my home school, because I get extra help with my work and a better understanding of everything I am learning. The teachers at Sagonaska also get to know you a lot better than other teachers would.

Some positive changes I have noticed about myself is that I am a lot more confident and my reading has improved a ton. Some things I like about Sagonaska are all the teachers and staff. They are all really friendly and want you to improve in your subjects. One major challenge about attending a res school is not seeing my family and friends everyday.

Janine

Something different about my old school and Sag is I use my technology in school and the class sizes are smaller. Some changes I've noticed in myself is that I am more confident at school and I can self advocate better. I feel able to ask for help when I need it. I like Sagonaska because I can use in technology in class.

One of the challenges from being at a residential school is being away from home.

Jake

Compared to my old school, we use more technology here at Sagonaska. I think I’ve changed since being here because now I hang out with people and I'm less shy. I like the teachers and the counselors because they help me and push me to learn. It's more independent and fun.

Amber

Sagonaska is different from my home school because Sag helps me go back to basics and the teachers actually care about if you don't get it and they help. I’m really excited and happy to be going up in my reading level. I like that I’m getting to know everyone better and that I’m getting help with my LD. One of the challenges of being at a residential school is that I miss my friends at home.

Kayla

I really like it here at Sag because I use all of the tech because it really helps me. I also like the really nice teachers because I feel like they understand me. I also have made a lot of friends. I like all of the things that we have done inside of class and outside of class in residence. I feel that at the end of the year it is going to benefit me in the long run and help me for the future. I also love how the classes are smaller so I can get all the help that I need here at Sag.

Josh

Sagonaska Is different than my home school because it helps me to learn how to use my tech more. I am helping people out more with tech if I know how to do it. I really like that being here makes you more independent. One downside is that you are away from your family for a week.