Paula Southard-Stevens

Southard-Stevens, teaming up with all the other teachers at the school, created the "Clubs Program," which consists of 14 different extra-curricular activities offered to all students in sixth through eighth grade. The program is designed to increase student involvement through providing fun and educational activities that match adult mentors with each student. Participants are allowed to select the "Club" they are most interested in, with activities ranging from scrapbook making, to sign language, swing dance classes, and even learning to play chess and bridge. The program aims to increase student interest in school activities, especially for those students who have been identified as "at-risk," while allowing healthy peer relationships to form among students in the various grade levels. Eighth graders are given the opportunity to play a leadership role while working with the younger students, and all of the students are able to view their teachers from a different perspective, while working together on fun educational projects and activities.