A System that Works
There are many factors that make up a school’s learning environment. From the teachers and children, to the building classes are held in, it’s a daily challenge to maintain a positive and nurturing atmosphere. After teaching at several schools over the past six years, I’ve found Happy Marian to be a well-organized school that is both helpful to new teachers and those with experience. A good school depends on a clear curriculum and policies that insure the students’ best interests. It must also provide the structure that will help teachers reach their full potential. Happy Marian schools give teachers the help they need so they can in turn help the children.
Most Happy Marian teachers I’ve met have been at their school for several years. This says something about the stability of the school and the satisfaction of those working there. When I first came to the Hsu-Mao school, the other teachers provided great help in how the routines were done. The experience of the staff made my transition into the school comfortable and friendly. Now when any issue or question arises, I’m able to ask for advice that is always available. A good staff will help each other and the children stay positive. (可刪如果字太多)
Clear rules are extremely important for maintaining a well-behaved school. If a school doesn’t establish their policies on discipline then there is room for misunderstandings or improper action. One of the most impressive aspects of the Hsu-Mao Happy Marian is how calm the school is. The teachers and staff have consistent rules and maintain a peaceful classroom setting. The positive behavior of most children sets the tone for the children with behavioral issues. By encouraging calm and proper behavior, the staff has created an environment that allows classes to be fun and run smoothly.
Another strong feature of the Happy Marian system is the support the management provides to the teachers. The weekly meetings aren’t the most popular point of the work week, but it allows teachers and managers to discuss the status of the classes. This helps the teachers stay organized and on schedule. It also gives teachers a time to reflect and discuss what they observed over the week. It can be difficult to always know how each child is doing all the time. Without consistent monitoring, children can easily slip through the cracks and fall behind. The weekly meetings encourage the teachers to be prepared for the lessons. They also provide a time to discuss any problems and how best to improve their classes. This is very helpful in keeping parents, teachers and children happy.

In my time working at Happy Marian, I’ve found that the children are well behaved and excited about learning. This is not because the children are all perfect or the teachers are all so gifted. It is because the structure of the school gives the children the setting they need to be successful. For the children to succeed, they need good instruction and positive encouragement. Happy Marian achieves this through a well established curriculum and a dedicated staff.

 

P5 Nathan Javens
Portland State University