If defining sense of community as a feeling of belongingness within a group, the overall feeling within the elementary school here at Journeys is a positive one. The children eagerly participate in activities as an entire division with great gusto. Older students feel honored to spend time downstairs reading with the younger students, lending a helping hand while sledding, or even helping to make our “Turkey Hats of Thanks” this past November.
In speaking with a group of second grade students, I asked them about their sense of community here at Journeys School. I asked them how their teachers influence and/or motivated them, and if they felt like Journeys School had a positive sense of community. They responded with ideas such as:

"Well, we get to share our community with wildlife and that is pretty cool."

"My teachers motivate me because they separate us into small groups so we get the right kind of learning – not just everyone doing the same thing all the time."

"Teachers at Journeys School say things like: “Try your hardest."

"They encourage you, and sometimes when you are overwhelmed with so many after school activities like Hockey and stuff, they help you a lot. Then it makes school more fun."

It is easy to see how a sense of community can influence the academic and social development of our students and their feeling of belongingness. It is apparent through the smiles on the children’s faces, and their abilities to overcome challenges together, that Journeys School is truly an environment to grow and learn within.