Thanksgiving: The Day a School Became “More Like Family”
It was Monday morning, Nov 25, 2013. Keep in mind that Ednovate - USC Hybrid High was 15 weeks into our turnaround efforts. That meant staff was working hard to rebuild systems and establish the right adult and student culture of our school. Students were asked to work harder than ever, day in and day out, for 4 straight months. It didn't seem like we had the time or energy to focus on anything outside of the classroom but we knew, that to be a great school, we had to connect with both the mind and hearts of our students.
So, on the morning of Nov. 25, in our regular team huddle, our staff decided to throw a Thanksgiving Potluck during advisory THE NEXT DAY. There were very few instructions except that everyone should bring food and we should bring our desks together to make it feel like a family dinner in advisory.
What resulted was a day that I will never forget. Students and staff alike brought so much joy and so much food the day before Thanksgiving Break. Advisories pulled their desks together and whipped around with a check in question of "what are you most grateful for?" and everybody young and old alike, shared gratitude for each other and going through this college prep journey together. I saw deep connections being made throughout our school community. It was then that I knew we were going to thrive as a school community (see some original pics of 11/26/13 below.).
Today, this tradition happens every year and at every Ednovate school! Hybrid and Brio continue these traditions in advisory, ensuring every student has a connection during this time. East created a field day out of it and Legacy and Esperanza open their doors for parents, brothers and sisters to come, too. Our Support Team honors this tradition every year, as well. We are so grateful for our staff who are creating traditions for our school communities, ones that will be remembered for years to come. We thank them for all of the heart and love they put into their work for our students daily. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday, everyone and please share your school’s traditions as well!
