During their first week, the principal and assistant principal pop in daily to offer support and advice. Each grade level has a chairman who gets two extra planning periods each week to assist new teachers in their classrooms. And any teacher may request time to observe in other classrooms. It's the simple things that will drive a teacher crazy. Wesley's students get extra support, too.
Teachers often take on the role of substitute parent.
For one, she scavenges garage sales for stuffed animals to give away. Also, on Lott's orders, a janitor buffs the hallway tiles until they shine. It does a lot for their self-esteem to come to a beautiful school. Children with the most serious difficulties get counseling and other support from Communities in Schools, a social service agency on campus. Academics the focus Academic progress, however, is the focus of the school's attention.