For the past several years, it is tradition for students in the Westerville City Schools’ nationally-recognized Educational Options for Success (EOS) program to ring the “Graduation Bell” upon earning the credits and points on state-required tests needed to earn their high school diploma.
Although students have not been physically present in school, they have very much been working remotely at home, completing lessons using the same digital content, and continuing virtual interactions to ask questions of their teachers. Students and teachers have learned to adapt while maintaining momentum in their coursework. As a result, students are earning credits, meeting their mutually agreed-upon academic plan, and subsequently graduating.
Yet, staff felt that one aspect needed still to be covered – the tradition of ringing the graduation bell. Staff members enthusiastically agreed to a suggestion from Scott Ebbrecht, Director of Assessment and Alternative Education Services, that they dedicate time during a weekly virtual staff meeting to videotape each of them ringing a bell. In just two takes, a new approach to an old tradition had been produced. While operating under this virtual learning environment, when students earn their high school diploma, they are now sent the video links below, along with personal congratulations from staff.
Take 1 (oops!) - https://tinyurl.com/take1bellringing
Take 2 (the one we made it successfully through!) - https://tinyurl.com/take2bellringing
“Educators are continuing to think of new ways to connect with students and celebrate their achievements,” Ebbrecht stated. “I continue to be in awe of our instructional staff across the district who are being innovative and using creative means to support students both academically and social-emotionally. There are countless examples of staff members engaging students in meaningful ways every day.”