Hi everyone and HAPPY SCHOOL YEAR!!!!
As we embark on another school year, I’m filled with excitement for the impact we can create through the work we do in our Unconditional Education (UE) School Partnership Program. Our mission: to increase the academic performance and social-emotional well-being of the most struggling students at our partner schools, and to increase the capacity of partner schools in delivering effective interventions to all students through the implementation of a multi-tiered framework - aims to ensure that every student, regardless of their circumstances, receives the tools and resources needed to thrive academically and emotionally. Whether you’re a UE coach or a Student Support Assistant/Mental Health Counselor, this year is an opportunity to deepen our partnership with schools, refine our practices, and lead with equity, empathy, and purpose. Each of us plays a critical role in advancing the work of Unconditional Education, and how we begin the year sets the tone for what’s possible.
To bring our mission to life, we must be intentional about how we engage with our schools and communities. There are several key areas that can guide our work and lay the foundation for meaningful impact. Let's explore how we approach these in the bigger picture, starting with building collaborative school partnerships.
Building Collaborative School Partnerships
Our program centers around collaboration, and the first few months of the school year are pivotal for building strong, trusting relationships with our school partners. This partnership isn’t just about what we deliver; it’s about listening to the unique needs of each school and co-creating solutions that honor their community and culture. Remember, we are not just service providers—we are thought partners and advocates, working alongside school teams to ensure that both staff and students feel seen, heard, and supported.
Cultivating Safe, Inclusive Environments
A core principle of Unconditional Education is fostering environments where every student feels safe, valued, and can thrive. We all have the shared responsibility of creating spaces that nurture not only academic growth but social-emotional development. This year, I encourage you to be proactive in shaping classrooms and campuses where all students—regardless of background or behavior—know they belong. I know this is no easy feat so remember, you’re not in this alone!
Centering Equity and Trauma-Informed Practices with a Healing-Centered Approach
Equity is at the heart of what we do. As we dive into the school year, let’s continue to prioritize trauma-informed/healing and equity-centered practices. Many of the students, families, and sometimes school partners we serve face significant challenges, and it’s essential that we approach each interaction with a mindset rooted in understanding and compassion. As you work within your schools, take time to reflect on how we can reduce barriers to learning and provide tailored interventions that support each student’s individual journey.
As we embark on another school year, I’m filled with excitement for the impact we can create through the work we do in our Unconditional Education (UE) School Partnership Program. Our mission: to increase the academic performance and social-emotional well-being of the most struggling students at our partner schools, and to increase the capacity of partner schools in delivering effective interventions to all students through the implementation of a multi-tiered framework - aims to ensure that every student, regardless of their circumstances, receives the tools and resources needed to thrive academically and emotionally. Whether you’re a UE coach or a Student Support Assistant/Mental Health Counselor, this year is an opportunity to deepen our partnership with schools, refine our practices, and lead with equity, empathy, and purpose. Each of us plays a critical role in advancing the work of Unconditional Education, and how we begin the year sets the tone for what’s possible.
To bring our mission to life, we must be intentional about how we engage with our schools and communities. There are several key areas that can guide our work and lay the foundation for meaningful impact. Let's explore how we approach these in the bigger picture, starting with building collaborative school partnerships.
Building Collaborative School Partnerships
Our program centers around collaboration, and the first few months of the school year are pivotal for building strong, trusting relationships with our school partners. This partnership isn’t just about what we deliver; it’s about listening to the unique needs of each school and co-creating solutions that honor their community and culture. Remember, we are not just service providers—we are thought partners and advocates, working alongside school teams to ensure that both staff and students feel seen, heard, and supported.
Cultivating Safe, Inclusive Environments
A core principle of Unconditional Education is fostering environments where every student feels safe, valued, and can thrive. We all have the shared responsibility of creating spaces that nurture not only academic growth but social-emotional development. This year, I encourage you to be proactive in shaping classrooms and campuses where all students—regardless of background or behavior—know they belong. I know this is no easy feat so remember, you’re not in this alone!
Centering Equity and Trauma-Informed Practices with a Healing-Centered Approach
Equity is at the heart of what we do. As we dive into the school year, let’s continue to prioritize trauma-informed/healing and equity-centered practices. Many of the students, families, and sometimes school partners we serve face significant challenges, and it’s essential that we approach each interaction with a mindset rooted in understanding and compassion. As you work within your schools, take time to reflect on how we can reduce barriers to learning and provide tailored interventions that support each student’s individual journey.
Balancing Professionalism and Flexibility
Working in schools requires a delicate balance of professionalism and flexibility. While we each have clear roles and responsibilities, the reality of school life often demands adaptability. Lean into that flexibility, be open to feedback, and remain solution-oriented when challenges arise. At the same time, maintaining professionalism in communication, documentation, and interactions with school partners is key to sustaining trust and accountability in our partnerships.
Investing in Ourselves and Each Other
Lastly and most importantly, let’s not forget the importance of supporting one another. We are a team of passionate professionals committed to creating change, but we can only do that if we care for ourselves and each other. This year, make space for self-care, lean on your colleagues, and continue to seek out supervision and professional development. Our work is demanding, and we need to invest in our own well-being as much as we invest in the schools we serve.
As we step into the new school year, let’s hold onto the vision of what’s possible when we bring Unconditional Education to life. Together, we can create transformative experiences for students, empower our school partners, and continue to push the boundaries of what education can be.
Here’s to a year of growth, collaboration, and impact!
In solidarity and in so much appreciation,
Amber
Balancing Professionalism and Flexibility
Working in schools requires a delicate balance of professionalism and flexibility. While we each have clear roles and responsibilities, the reality of school life often demands adaptability. Lean into that flexibility, be open to feedback, and remain solution-oriented when challenges arise. At the same time, maintaining professionalism in communication, documentation, and interactions with school partners is key to sustaining trust and accountability in our partnerships.
Investing in Ourselves and Each Other
Lastly and most importantly, let’s not forget the importance of supporting one another. We are a team of passionate professionals committed to creating change, but we can only do that if we care for ourselves and each other. This year, make space for self-care, lean on your colleagues, and continue to seek out supervision and professional development. Our work is demanding, and we need to invest in our own well-being as much as we invest in the schools we serve.
As we step into the new school year, let’s hold onto the vision of what’s possible when we bring Unconditional Education to life. Together, we can create transformative experiences for students, empower our school partners, and continue to push the boundaries of what education can be.
Here’s to a year of growth, collaboration, and impact!
In solidarity and in so much appreciation,
Amber
Blog Post by: Amber Fretwell, Executive Director of School Partnerships
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