What Makes Us Unique
Our Core
Values.
- Take a stand.
- Honor yourself and others.
- Work together.
- Work hard.
- Be reflective.
These core values set the foundation for the work that we do every day, and are embedded in our “everyday” interactions. They are a small set of guiding principles that have a profound impact on how everyone in our school strives to think and act. They have intrinsic value and are of significant importance to the staff at Brighter Choice Community School.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is a whole child approach system through which students acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to:
- Understand and manage emotions.
- Set and achieve goals.
- Feel and show empathy for others.
- Establish and maintain positive relationships.
- Make responsible decisions.
SEL is embedded in our lesson and unit plans, as well as our staffing and professional learning. We develop tools that assist children with self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
Social-Emotional
Learning.
Progressive Redesign Opportunity
Schools for Excellence.
The Progressive Redesign Opportunity Schools for Excellence (P.R.O.S.E.) program was established as part of the new contract between the UFT, CSA, and the DOE. The P.R.O.S.E. program enables schools that have a demonstrated record of effective school leadership, collaboration, and trust to implement innovative practices outside of existing rules.
BCCS is among 150+ schools collaboratively engaged in reflective conversations which surface practices and systems that improve student achievement and teacher effectiveness. These conversations also reveal practices that may need improvement to increase school metrics.
At BCCS we believe in fostering thinkers who do not memorize but engage in deep learning with curiosity and passion.
Project-based learning is a dynamic approach to teaching in which students explore real-world problems and challenges. With this type of active and engaged learning, students are inspired to obtain a deeper knowledge of the subjects they’re studying. Projects can be wonderful teaching tools. They can allow for a more student-centered environment, where teachers can guide students in their learning instead of using lectures to provide them with information.
Project-Based
Learning.
Restorative
Circles.
Our students come to school with so much on their minds and in their hearts. While at school, they experience an array of things that require explanation, guidance, or intervention. As educators, we can help them process their thoughts and feelings so they can better handle their situations, feel safe and supported as an individual, develop greater empathy towards others, experience confidence in their school community, and be more present in class.
As a team, we are charged with creating and implementing a plan, through the structures and use of Restorative Practices, to best assist our students and provide foundation for the positive development of social-emotional processes, critical thinking skills, and community service.