7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a well-loved book at our school. It is useful and thought-provoking in the best of times, but now perhaps more than ever it feels timely and even prophetic. 7 Habits thinking catapults us during tough times like these. Together, we are in a distance-learning-during-a-pandemic boat, getting bounced around. Our 7 Habits thinking can cut through the uncertainty and disequilibrium; it can be our rudder.
There is an old saying that, “a man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder.” A ship floating in water — without direction — can easily lose its way. A captain with a hand on the rudder guides the ship to its destination.
Our AACA rudder — especially right now — is guided by our principles. We will not stray from our course to grow great kids and educate with care and intention. We have the end in mind. Using our rudder, we are moving through this crisis. We are riding the waves, we will not sink! We know our strengths — our school benefits from the power of positive principles.
These past few weeks have especially reminded our AACA family the value of 7 Habits thinking. Together, we recognize:
- Being Proactive: Bring students back to school safely and as soon as possible while managing the logistics and administration of the school.
- Beginning with the End in Mind: The longer we stay in Distance Learning, the harder it will be for students to achieve academic gains.
- Put First Things First: Make decisions based on our highest values.
- Thinking Win-Win: Make decisions that will support the families and faculty/staff.
- Seeking 1st to Understand all perspectives (staff, families, and students) via surveys, staff feedback, engagement levels, and staff collaboration meetings.
- Synergy: Work together to create the best model for all stakeholders (especially students) based on current health guidance.
- Sharpen the Saw: Collegial support and stakeholder synergy is helping to keep us strong!
“I am sure glad that I know how to practice the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Determining what is in the best interest of student achievement and what is most safe are too often at odds. There are many conflicting factors as we navigate the reopening of schools.” Bob Bourgault, Director, Almond Acres Charter Academy
We are extremely grateful to our board, families, staff, and students for the patience, persistence, and positive attitudes we have all needed during this very interesting time in our shared history.
We will continue to do the next right thing to Grow Great Kids!
Did you know our middle schoolers have a 1:28 student to teacher ratio? Every great kid is known for who they are in grades six to eight. Join our small, caring school and enroll today!
About Almond Acres
Almond Acres Charter Academy is a public, tuition-free K-8 school that employs credentialed teachers and administers state-mandated testing to provide families in northern SLO County an additional choice in public education. The school is located inSan Miguel and is open to all students in all communities. AACA’s mission is to help students succeed academically and socially by educating the whole child: heart, mind, body and soul. We grow great kids!
