Skills necessary to run the society are learned “on the job” as well as in the classroom. Students participate in business meetings, develop business plans, integrate technology, learn about Roberts Rules of Order, and provide ideas for products or services in their businesses. In addition, they brainstorm ideas to deal with the problems that they encounter.
Students earn wages in “friendship dollars”, the school currency, pay taxes and rent, and become producers and consumers in a free-market economy. Economic concepts are taught within the program and integrated throughout the school day. All students go out for “consumer break” twice a month where, they become consumers in the society. This gives them the opportunity to shop for goods, visit the service ventures, and complete their banking. Student CrimeStoppers patrol the halls, making sure that all are following school rules and using their Lifelong Guidelines and Life Skills.
Students who participate in MicroSociety experience higher levels of thinking and learning as they solve problems and manage their learning. Most importantly, they experience the pride and benefits of their labor as they become business owners, judges, bankers, legislators, and entrepreneurs in a safe and supportive learning environment.
Student achievement rises as children strive to achieve their personal goals. Goals provide a place to start, a path to take, and a finish line, so you know when you get there. Choosing goals takes thought and self-reflection. Accomplishing goals requires persistence and improved self-esteem. MicroSociety provides multiple opportunities for all children to succeed as individuals and in groups and creates an environment where all children feel a sense of belonging and responsibility for each other and their community.
Mrs. Brackx, the MicroSociety® Coordinator holds our Magnet School of Excellence Award.
