A Ripple of Hope

Can data folders send a ripple of hope that inspires children and their families? What does this tool potentially communicate?

1. It brings awareness to children- of what is essential to know in a grade level
2. It brings awareness to children- of their educational health
3. It shares with children that our school believes they have what it takes to achieve.

This all ties into the work of Peter Senge around mental models and personal mastery.

IF these folders are designed well. Many I have seen are thrown together without much thought. I think there are some components to make sure you include in a design:
1. Missioning (being aware of why we are here.
2. Data (showing our performance compared to the average)
3. A rubric of proficiency (so students can become aware of expectations)
4. A resource page (so students can plan a way to build the necessary skills)
5. A reflection section (where students think about their own strengths and opportunities to grow) and
6. An action planning section (this teaches leadership)

I can't tell you how much this motivates me- to even think these tools could possibly bring hope.