WAM Spring Academy

At WAM Spring Academy, we believe that your story matters. We don’t just want to teach you about character development and social-emotional learning; we want to use our stories to help you learn. We know that everyone’s journey is unique, and we want to create a space where you can share your experiences and grow alongside other students. By connecting with diverse role models and exploring important concepts, we can help you build the skills and resilience you need to succeed in all areas of life. The guide emphasizes important qualities and values for students to embrace throughout the program.

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how to prepare

WAM Spring Academy Guide

BE YOU

Every student brings a unique perspective and set of experiences to the table. It’s okay to not have all the answers or be uncertain. Embrace your individuality and use this program as an opportunity to discover more about yourself.

BE REFLECTIVE

We encourage you to think about your experiences and internal feedback loops, reflecting on your thoughts and emotions to better understand yourself and your learning process.

BE CONNECTIVE

Our program is designed to foster peer-to-peer sharing and learning. Students engaging in candid and consistent communication within the cohorts can deepen their understanding of course material and build meaningful relationships with their peers.

be respectful

We value open and honest communication but also believe in maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment. It’s okay to take a position on a topic, but it’s never okay to attack or belittle a person for their beliefs or opinions.

be vulnerable

Vulnerability can be a difficult concept to grasp, but it’s an essential part of personal growth and development. By defining what vulnerability means to you and staying present in all sessions, you can develop greater empathy, self-acceptance, and trust in others.

be patient

Learning takes time and patience; taking breaks and focusing on self-care when needed is essential. Through breathing exercises and body scans, students can learn to manage stress and approach their learning with a clear and focused mind.

be involved

Deep listening is critical to effective communication and learning. By fully engaging with others and actively listening to their perspectives, students can broaden their understanding of different viewpoints and build more meaningful connections with their peers.

be virtuous

We want our learners to embody virtues such as honesty, kindness, and respect in all aspects of their lives. By striving to think highly of others, you can build a positive community around = and inspire others to do the same.

Cohort Lesson Plans

Module One: self-awareness and self-management

Introduction to Self Awareness and Self Management

Introduction to Self-Awareness + Self-Management. Learn why this concept is important and how shared experiences help support the discussions ahead. Be prepared to reflect out loud and collectively write with the group.

Mentor Stories and Identity

Tap into WAM mentor stories amongst the group and with mentor speakers. Discussions on identity will also take place in week two. Be prepared for deeper reflection and enhancing your active journaling.

Vulnerability and Empathy

This week, we’ll discuss vulnerability and empathy in detail with the help of WAM mentor stories. The discussion will leave you thinking about the shared experiences of the cohort and working on your personal development plan.

Mentor Stories and Reflection

This week, we’ll dive into collective writing exercises and WAM mentor stories. Our module culminates with cohort team activities and data sharing.

Module Two: Decision Making

Introduction to Responsible Decision Making

Introduction to [responsible] decision making. Learn why this concept is important and how shared experiences help support the discussions ahead. Be prepared to reflect out loud and collectively write with the group.

Social Morals and Personal Compass

We will discuss social morals and your personal compass. Be prepared to think through how you make decisions and some frameworks to have at the ready to assist in this process.

Decision Making

This week, we will discuss decision-making in the context of vulnerability, identity, and belonging.

Mentor Stories and Reflection

This week, we will close out this module with WAM mentor stories and summary shares.

Module Three: Relationship Skills + Social Awareness

Introduction to Relationship Skills and Social Awareness

Introduction to relationship skills and social awareness. Learn why these skills are helpful for you in school and out-of-school settings.

Shared Respect and Rewards

This week, we will discuss shared respect and rewards. Be prepared to connect with each other and share reflections on WAM mentor stories and each other’s stories.

Decision Making

This week, we will discuss decision-making in the context of vulnerability, identity, and belonging.

Mentor Stories and Reflection

This week, we will close out with WAM mentor stories and revisit social awareness. Group shares will inform this discussion, collective writing, and data sharing.