Most children who come to Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch have not had a good relationship with school. Their behavioral and psychiatric problems have often resulted in them being labeled as "one of those kids.” If they are in a chaotic home, the school has likely not received much parental cooperation. They are often bullied or the bully. Simply, school has not been the happy place of learning adults hope it is.
In today’s world, school is complicated for all children with the pressures of performance, social media, technology, and a constant barrage of “noise” from every direction. For Ranch kids, that is all geometrically multiplied by family challenges, their trauma, and their behavioral and mental health challenges. Whether describing our residential children or our Day Student population, the staff at Dakota Memorial School, the on-site school of the Ranch, works with a challenged, often gifted, smart, skeptical set of kids.
We do many things to help these amazing kids learn they can be successful in school. Our balanced learning environment classrooms have sensory furniture that allows children to move about the classroom, while still learning and engaging in work. Project-based learning enables students to see how they can use math, science, English, and other subjects together to reach a tangible outcome. Additional staff in every classroom help children cope and calm when necessary. Lighting, sound levels, and opportunities for short breaks to reset and restart, contribute to a learning environment tailored to each child.
The one thing in the classroom that overshadows all others is the attitude of the teacher. Dakota Memorial School teachers are all experts in their content areas (Math, Biology, Physical Education, etc.) and they are specially trained to work with children who have endured trauma. Trauma-sensitive education means that children learn all the content, but in an environment that accommodates their healing needs. Our teachers understand that building a relationship of trust with each child is key to opening the door to learning.
The teachers are wonderful at encouraging each other, too. They communicate between class periods, ensuring transitions that keep kids in the classroom. They appreciate each other. They send encouraging messages.
This one, which crossed my desk, really epitomizes the importance of meeting our kids where they are at. A morning update sent by one of the teachers quoted author, educator, and religious leader, Jeffrey Holland, as saying, "If some students are unresponsive maybe you can’t teach them yet, but you can love them. And if you love them today, maybe you can teach them tomorrow.”
These are pretty special teachers.
Please keep all the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch children and staff in your prayers.
In His love,
Joy Ryan, President/CEO
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch
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