Newswise — Although a final decision will not be rendered until later this month on the fate of 49 Philadelphia Archdiocesan schools, there is little doubt that a number of those schools will be closing or merging with other schools. Pennsylvania certified school psychologist and senior fellow at Saint Joseph’s University’s Center for Catholic Urban Education in Philadelphia, Anne Marie Borneman, Ed.D., believes that it is time for everyone involved to begin to consider ways to make these transitions positive experiences for school children.
Borneman points out that the school restructuring offers a learning opportunity for children that teachers should embrace. “The ability to adapt to changes and challenges in a positive and constructive manner is an important life lesson,” she argues. “By helping students develop resilience and a sense of competency, adults can give children the skills necessary to cope more confidently with future challenges.”
Parents are also feeling unsettled about the proposed changes that will occur in September and are looking for ways to help their children cope. Borneman suggests the following strategies for parents to alleviate potential stress:
• Try to come to terms with the impending restructuring and commit yourself to positively supporting your child through the transition period.
• Encourage your child to share his or her feelings and reactions to the upcoming changes, and affirm that these emotions are normal and natural.
• Acknowledge that new situations can be scary, but emphasize that change can open doors to new and unexpected experiences, i.e. making new friends, meeting new teachers, and being part of an exciting new school community.
• Attend open houses with your child at the new school, and make it a point to meet faculty and staff at the school.
• Plan ahead for, and prepare your child for, any changes in transportation.
“If parents project a positive and optimistic attitude toward the school change, children will more likely adopt a similar outlook, resulting in a smoother - and more successful - transition for all,” says Borneman.
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