Bold. Innovative. Fun. And completely different than any other BUGS student orientation.
Understanding that our students needed a totally new approach for the opening of school during COVID-19, the student orientation planning team, led by Dean Dameon, Dean of Student Affairs, and Director of Math, Mr. W., designed a week-long epic student orientation adventure designed to appeal to heroes of all ages. By accepting the challenge to accumulate the 5 gems that represent each of the CARES values, our students are learning the core components (systems and routines, culture, expectations and responsibilities) of being a student at BUGS that will set them up for success at middle school.
Opening Day Snapshot
On Monday we welcomed our new 6th graders. They began the day with an introduction to the Quest, met the BUGS 6th grade teachers, and their advisors. Within their small group advisory, students got to know one another, learned about how we use Google Meet, discussed the sustainability topic of the tragedy of the commons, created their character in Classcraft, and set off as a group on the quest for the diamond of community sharing encouraging kudos along the way.
Watch the welcome video here to find out more about what's ahead this week, how we build community at BUGS, and meet 6th grade teachers.
On Tuesday, 7th and 8th graders had their first day of virtual orientation. Throughout the week, the grades will alternate synchronous and asynchronous culminating in a combined House sorting event on Friday.
Enjoy this quick preview of Student Orientation 2020.
Intrigued? Read this Q&A with Dean Dameon and Mr. W. about the goals and design of The Quest for the CARES Gems.
What inspired you to develop a student orientation Quest for the CARES Gems?
Mr. W: The inspiration for the Quest came from our belief that our students would need some fun and excitement after all the anxiety and tension in their lives because of COVID. I’ve always been drawn to Joseph Campbell’s hero's journey and how an ordinary person gets called to greatness, suffers defeat, overcomes trials, meets friends (and foes), and returns to regular life changed for always.
We saw the hero’s quest as a metaphor for entering BUGS and beginning middle school. Our students are leaving their old lives and transitioning into a new place with lots of challenges, but lots of people to help them out, such as teachers, staff, and friends. Middle school is a quest in itself -- students join us from childhood (elementary school) and graduate with the skills and confidence required to succeed in high school.
What are your goals for student orientation?
Dean Dameon: We wanted student orientation to be engaging and captivating for returning students and warm and welcoming for new students. Students start the week as individuals on a quest that teaches them about our CARES values and they also learn about systems, routines, academic and behavioral expectations, and what sustainability means at BUGS. They end the week as a member of one of BUGS five Houses, ready to begin their year at BUGS.
We also want students to be excited about the school year. A thoughtful, well-designed virtual student orientation lets everyone know that we can tap all theinnovative possibilities within remote learning.
What are you most excited about?
Dean Dameon: I am excited about the storyline and how the quest for gems connects so well with the BUGS CARES values. With everything our community has been through, It’s really important that we recognize that everyone is the hero of their own story.
Mr. W: I’m excited about how the staff jumped in to write stories and create videos. We are getting to see that Classcraft and gaming can be a great tool for increasing engagement from students at all levels and abilities. It’s rewarding to know thatwe’ve created an experience for our students that comes from a place of joy and fun.
How can families get involved?
Dean Dameon: There are lots of ways families can get involved. For example, there are tasks that happen offline about creating art or going for a walk and using all five senses to appreciate the neighborhood and noticing what has stayed the same, what has changed.
Mr. W: Families can also join us each morning at 8:30 a.m. for the launch of the day video. And remember, we are also holding two optional virtual family sessionsthis week. There’s Remote Learning 101 on Wednesday, September 2 at 6pm andFamily Appy Hour on Thursday, September 3 at 6pm.
What advice do you have for students during orientation?
Dean Dameon: Do your best. Step outside of your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to ask questions when you need to.
Mr. W: Make sure you have a device that you can access events on. Try to find a space that is quiet and not cluttered.
Follow BUGS on social media (Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter) for the latest updates on the Quest for the CARES Gems.