Hey SVA Family,
Allan here at the Principal desk. I thought I would share a little about what I do and what my intentions are when I work with your scholars in my capacity as Principal.
While I do often see students because of a problematic behavior that has occurred, it is also my practice to visit with and check in with scholars proactively, whether or not there has been any problem. I make it my goal to learn as many of the student's names as I can, and am typically pretty close to 100% by the later part of the year (it's the whole new crew of Kinders that always gets me! LOL). I try to have positive contact with as many students as possible, every single day, as part of building the school community and also as a preventative measure against potential future behaviors. It is my intention to make our scholars feel seen, known, and appreciated.
When I have the opportunity to advise or counsel students, my guiding principle is to help students "find their gifts," and then find ways to use them effectively. I ask scholars tons of questions about what they enjoy doing in and out of school, what things they are good at, and with what things with which they struggle most. It is my belief that finding success, happiness, and joy in life lies in finding a person's passion and exploring their love for something. Combining this along with using natural abilities, aptitudes, and gifts is key! My purpose is to help students begin to realize their passions, recognize their abilities, and make connections between those things and the needs that they see in the world around them. People who feel that they can positively affect their community through the use of their talents and abilities are happy people!
My other goal is for students here to always feel that they have a safe place with a safe adult to come to when needing support. Our students can trust that they will get an ear ready to listen fully and completely and a person to walk with them through the struggle until some resolution is found to make things right. I want our scholars to feel comfortable to walk into my open door with their struggles and to trust that they will be addressed with the seriousness and respect they deserve.
I want all of our scholars to feel self-respect and dignity. I want them to feel valued and worthwhile. My work with your student is in an effort to help produce these feelings inside them and give them the strength and ability to make great choices on their own.
My door is always open to parents as well! If you ever have questions or concerns regarding your scholar, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Thanks so much!!!
Allan Benton
Principal
