Left to Right: Seventh graders Samantha Anter – Protos House, Feliz Vergeer – Altruisma, Rowan Gonzalez – Nukumori, Daisy Vergeer – Onraka; Noelle Brennan – Onraka.
by Shirley Lorraine
Since 2022, Anacapa Middle School has adopted a “house” system that has resulted in a substantial increase in student enthusiasm, sense of belonging and academic achievement.
The students are divided into four houses (a la Hogwarts) when they enroll. They choose a plastic egg. Contained within is a rubber bracelet donating, by color, which house they will enter. They keep the same house throughout their tenure at the school. In this way, 6th, 7th and 8th graders can work together, with continuity, form new friendships and alliances and learn at new levels.
The four houses are Altruismo, House of Givers, Nukumori, House of Kindness, Protos, House of Success, and Onraka, House of Unity. Each house has its own crest, creed, color, mascot, symbol and focus.
At the high-spirited rally, many students and teachers alike dressed in their house colors, waving banners and cheering wildly. The atmosphere was electric with excitement. Students participated in trivia and obstacle competitions for their houses.
According to Assistant Principal Petra McCullough, the need to find a way to re-invigorate students in the learning environment post-Covid was essential. This program, led by the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Georgia, seemed to be just what the school needed – a new outlook and a stimulating way for students and faculty to reengage. Now in its third year at Anacapa, the program appears to be s an overwhelming success.
The program emphasizes leadership and opportunities for all students. For the first time, in the near future, four student leaders, one from each house, have been chosen to attend a Leadership Academy session in Atlanta to further their skills.
Each of the student leaders I spoke with enthusiastically emphasized the value of the system that encourages working together, having fun and achieving academic success. Their excitement and pride were infectious.
To learn more, visit the school’s website at www.anacapa.venturausd.org
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