This week I had the privilege of training yard supervisors for Modesto City Schools for two days and one day for campus supervisors. In honor of their dedication to students and the start of another school year, I’m re-posting this blog. Thanks for your investment in our community’s children.
The men and women whose job title is, “Yard Supervisors” or “Campus Supervisor,” don’t get near the recognition they deserve. Yard Supervisors are on the “front lines” of our elementary schools while campus supervisors are on the “front lines” of junior and senior high schools.
If you want to know what’s happening at your local school site, they know. They know because they spend time with students while they’re not in classes. This includes time before school, passing periods, recesses, lunches, and after school. They are amongst different groups of students most of the day.
Changes
During the summer 2015, Modesto City Schools changed work hours and the number of yard supervisors at many sites. I have the privilege of working with many of the employees in these roles at 16 school sites. Yard supervisors and campus supervisors have a huge sphere of influence. It’s the reason so many restorative practices training hours are invested in them.
Why do they do this kind of work?
A large number of them wanted to work, but also wanted to be around their own children. At last week’s training, one site had four of six yard duty who began working when their children started elementary school. Their children are now attending junior and senior high schools, but they’re still there. Why? They enjoy working with students and making a difference in their lives.
At Work
I wish you could see yard supervisors and campus supervisors interact with our young people. Last December, my husband had that opportunity. Our granddaughter, Khloe, was having tubes in her ears so our grandson, Parker, stayed with us. Papa took him to school in the morning. He asks, “Parker, where do I drop you off?”
“Just drive by the front and I get out,” he explains. Papa drives his car through the parking lot. A yard supervisor approaches the car and opens Parker’s door.
“Hi Parker. How are you? Where’s Khloe today?” she asks.
Nurturing School Climate
My husband was so impressed that she knew each of our grandchildren and called them by name. I was too. But I shouldn’t have been. Greeting each student by name is recommended as part of a positive and nurturing school climate – helping each student feel welcome and cared for at school.
Next time you see a yard supervisor or campus supervisor, I’m sure they’d appreciate a few kind words. After all, they have a significant impact on our students every day.
Image source: TK3401_and_TK3501D [commons.wikimedia.org]