Commons Teacher
The Commons area of Northport High School is the hub of all student life and activities. It is a unique space that provides students with educational opportunities outside the classroom in a host of different ways. The Commons area is a wonderful space full of exciting events, opportunities, artwork, fundraisers, and much more in a nontraditional learning environment.
As the Commons teacher I was responsible for running and coordinating all educational activities, fundraisers, performances, and social events held within the commons area. Half the day I taught art and the other half was dedicated to working in the the commons. This position allowed me to work with students in a completely different capacity than inside the classroom. It was a highly creative position which fosters the spirit of hope and philanthropy amongst the students of Northport High School.
As the Commons teacher I was responsible for running and coordinating all educational activities, fundraisers, performances, and social events held within the commons area. Half the day I taught art and the other half was dedicated to working in the the commons. This position allowed me to work with students in a completely different capacity than inside the classroom. It was a highly creative position which fosters the spirit of hope and philanthropy amongst the students of Northport High School.
Above: My office was located directly in the center of the commons area for students to access easily. |
Above: Northport High School Commons Area |
Distracted Driving Awareness Day
Distracted driving is a serious issue we are facing today. Under my supervision, National Honor Society students created a Distracted Driving Awareness Day in the commons. The hashtag #ItCanWait was proudly displayed all across the commons while students were asked to make the pledge to keep their eyes on the road at all times. Volunteers passed out fliers containing distracted driving statistics while powerful true stories of families affected by distracted driving accidents played on the commons TV. Students were also encouraged to visit the website www.itcanwait.com for additional resources on safe driving.
Distracted driving is a serious issue we are facing today. Under my supervision, National Honor Society students created a Distracted Driving Awareness Day in the commons. The hashtag #ItCanWait was proudly displayed all across the commons while students were asked to make the pledge to keep their eyes on the road at all times. Volunteers passed out fliers containing distracted driving statistics while powerful true stories of families affected by distracted driving accidents played on the commons TV. Students were also encouraged to visit the website www.itcanwait.com for additional resources on safe driving.
Kids With Character Program:
I collect nominations from teachers who have observed outstanding character in one or more of their students. Twice a year I host a special award luncheon for the students that have been nominated. During the luncheon students are presented with their Kids With Character award and honored for their outstanding character. This program is a wonderful way to recognize good character throughout our student body.
I collect nominations from teachers who have observed outstanding character in one or more of their students. Twice a year I host a special award luncheon for the students that have been nominated. During the luncheon students are presented with their Kids With Character award and honored for their outstanding character. This program is a wonderful way to recognize good character throughout our student body.
RAP Week:
Recovery, Awareness and Prevention week in the commons!
Recovery, Awareness and Prevention week in the commons!
Unity Day:
National anti-bullying campaign which inspires students to put an end to bullying
National anti-bullying campaign which inspires students to put an end to bullying
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iNews Bulletin Board:
I created the iNews bulletin board as a fun way to display events taking place in Northport High School. Teachers email me information to post on the board for students to view. The iNews bulletin board acts as the 'Newsfeed' of Northport High School.
I created the iNews bulletin board as a fun way to display events taking place in Northport High School. Teachers email me information to post on the board for students to view. The iNews bulletin board acts as the 'Newsfeed' of Northport High School.
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Breast Cancer Awareness Day:
Northport's National Honor Society students transform the commons for Breast Cancer Awareness day! Students worked extremely hard to decorate the commons in an effort to raise awareness for this extremely important cause.
Northport's National Honor Society students transform the commons for Breast Cancer Awareness day! Students worked extremely hard to decorate the commons in an effort to raise awareness for this extremely important cause.
Be The Change Week:
As a follow up to Challenge Day (an anti-bullying program) I worked closely with our guidance chairperson, Terrence Hinson, to create Be The Change Week. We held different activities in the commons for students to be the change they wish to see in the world:
As a follow up to Challenge Day (an anti-bullying program) I worked closely with our guidance chairperson, Terrence Hinson, to create Be The Change Week. We held different activities in the commons for students to be the change they wish to see in the world:
- Compliments MONDAY- Students sent 'Smiley Grams' to classmates with compliments
- Mix It Up TUESDAY- The cafeteria was decorated from wall to wall with important messages and students were asked to sit in random groups to get to know one another.
- Staff Appreciation WEDNESDAY- Students sent 'Apple Grams' to their favorite staff members
- Diversity Day THURSDAY-Students received 'NHS Passports' and were encouraged to strike up meaningful conversations with peers they did not know. After each conversation the new friend signed their passport.
- Pay It Forward FRIDAY- Students were encouraged to encouraged to do good deeds and perform random acts of kindness for others throughout the day.
Spirit Week in the Commons:
Commons Pep Rally Show:
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Commons Fundraisers:
Toys for Tots- Students donated new toys for the holidays 
Teens for Jeans- Students donated their gently used jeans to be distributed to homeless teenagers 
Teens for Jeans display
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Students brought in school supplies to donate to the victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines 
Thanksgiving Food Drive for our local food pantry. 
Valentine cards for hospital patients |
Student Life in the Commons:
