When the little ones in this Massachusetts elementary school face a difficult social situation, they immediately go into action mode. Tears and fears seem to disappear as the students masterfully use the Solution Wheel and “I-Care” strategies to cope with problems that might baffle some adults. If President Obama is looking for skilled diplomats, ones that keep their cool in potentially explosive situations, he would be wise to stop at Colonel John Robinson Elementary School, located in the affluent suburb of Westford, just northwest of Boston. Here he would see students systematically using a Solution Wheel to examine the nine options available to them when faced with a difficult situation. Although world leaders could learn a lesson or two from these polished arbitrators, such mentoring might be found wanting in at least one respect: The oldest student in this peace-loving school is just in second grade.
Read more about Robinson in the 2009 NSOC book: “Spinning the Wheel for Peaceful Solutions“
Signature Practices
Lesson Plan: Turn-Taking and Choosing Who Goes First: Playing Fair
Students will understand and use strategies for deciding who goes first or who chooses a game/activity.
Lesson Plan: Peace It Together: Playing Fair
Students will be able to define what it means to be a good sport and what to do when you win and lose.
Lesson Plan: Making and Keeping Friends: Social Skills and Diversity
This lesson will help students understand the concept of body language and personal space.
Contact Information
Denise G. ArvidsonPrincipal
60 Concord Road Westford, Massachusetts
Phone: (978) 692-5586, ext. 10
Email: darvidson@westfordk12.us
Website: rs.westfordk12.us