The R Factor and SEL

Today we will begin to explore the direct correlation between student well-being and the
R Factor System. This blog is the first in a 3-part series that will show that our student well-being efforts are the “what” and the R Factor system is the “how”.

Children face many circumstances and life experiences that can affect their success in school. According to @traumasensitiveschools.org, 2019, “Experts explain that trauma is not an event itself, but rather a response to one or more overwhelmingly stressful events where one’s ability to cope is dramatically undermined”. In public education we are faced with many requirements, or state and local mandates, that often restrict us from providing adequate services our children so desperately need. The focus on mental health and student well-being must be paramount in our work in public education. We can’t master Bloom’s until we meet Maslow’s.

We must create a culture where adults and students feel safe, loved and cared for before any learning can take place. How do we become more proactive in equipping our students and adults with the skills needed to handle life’s adverse events?

The R Factor System equips students and adults with skills necessary to respond to life’s events in a disciplined, intentional manner; therefore creating better outcomes. In the following few paragraphs, we will show the direct correlation between Social-Emotional Learning and the powerful R Factor System.

The “WHAT”
Social-Emotional Learning
According to CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning), Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.

The “HOW”
The R Factor
Life comes at us fast. Situations, people, responsibilities, challenges, change… we are constantly dealing with the stuff of life. This presents a universal challenge for everyone:

How do we navigate the events we experience

in a way that produces the best possible results?

The answer lies with implementing a simple and powerful framework into your life. A system for being intentional about the way you think, make decisions, and act.

The SEL components identify what we “want” students to make growth in on their journey to a healthier social-emotional state.

We also know that we get better at any skill with systematic  purposeful practice in small, slow, and daily actions. The R Factor provides a simple, yet powerful system to improve our response to the inevitable obstacles we will face through life. The six disciplines of the R Factor system provides individuals with a behavioral toolbox for managing their R’s (responses) with intention, purpose, and skill. The daily application of these disciplines, not circumstances individuals face, determine the quality of outcomes which individuals produce.

Below you will see the R Factor Disciplines paired next to the correlating CASEL SEL components.

The R Factor “The How”	SEL Components “The What”
Press Pause Before you respond, think and gain clarity. Get off auto-pilot.	Self Management The ability to successfully regulate one’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations.  Self Awareness The ability to accurately recognize one’s own emotions, thoughts, and values and how they influence behavior.
Get Your Mind Right Create the necessary mindset for responding to situations you face.	Responsible Decision-Making The ability to make constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions based on ethical standards, safety concerns, and social norms.  Self Awareness The ability to accurately recognize one’s own emotions, thoughts, and values and how they influence behavior.

Step Up Take the action you need for the outcome you want.  Win the Moment!	Responsible Decision-Making The ability to make constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions based on ethical standards, safety concerns, and social norms.  Social Awareness The ability to take the perspective of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Adjust and Adapt Be exceptional at dealing with change. Things change, be flexible.	Social Awareness The ability to take the perspective of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Make a Difference Your R is an E for others. Create value and give other people a great experience.	Relationship Skills The ability to establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships with diverse individuals and groups.
Build Skill  How you manage your R (response) determines the quality of your life.	Relationship Skills  The ability to establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships with diverse individuals and groups.

In public education we must stop adding more “whats” and spend more of our time, energy, and resources on the “how’s”. We must move beyond posters on the wall and charts telling students what we want them to do. We need to SHOW them, EQUIP them, and SUPPORT them with a simple system that empowers each student to live their best life even in the hardest of circumstances.

Be ELITE,
D. Sayre

Becoming - #OneWord2019

2019…a new year, a fresh start, and yet another chance for each of us to reinvent ourselves. As many of us do this time of year, we set new goals, we dream of what could be and we vow to stick to whatever "resolutions" we have set. We are motivated to improve ourselves on so many levels: mentally, physically, emotionally. 

My own recommitment to becoming a better version of myself actually started during winter break. I was fortunate to have time to read and relax. I chose to read Becoming by Michelle Obama. WOW! I was moved with many emotions during my time reading this inspirational memoir. This moved me to do more, serve more, care more, dream more and BECOME more! This book led me to my #OneWord for 2019 - Becoming. 

In her book, Michelle Obama shares what "becoming" means to her, "For me, becoming isn't about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach toward a better self. The journey doesn't end.” 

Obama's definition of "becoming” immediately resonated with me. It reminded me of the word/phrase, "Journey to ELITE", that has guided my actions/thoughts over the past few years since having the tremendous opportunity to work with Tim Kight and the Focus 3 system. Being "Elite" is simply striving to be the best version of you - to be better today than you were yesterday and better tomorrow than today. 

I instantly felt the connection between the two words/phrases. I knew "Becoming" was the next step for me on my journey to become a better version of myself. I appreciated that throughout her story she reminded readers that, "Failure is a feeling long before it's an actual result." For me, this reinforced the mindset that in times of doubt and struggle, each of us control how we choose to respond to negative self-talk.

When I came to the decision that "Becoming" was my #OneWord for 2019, I immediately wanted to "blog" about it and share it with others. I began to write, but then I had doubts about sharing my thoughts with the world. I immediately reflected upon another powerful message I borrowed from Obama, "There's power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice. And there's grace in being willing to know and hear others. This, for me, is how we become.”

So, here's to 2019, a year of BECOMING a better version of D. Sayre! Cheers! 

HCSD Walk of Gratitude Spring 2018 - Darby, Heritage Station

In today's society we are all so busy. We constantly are pushing ourselves and each other to do more and to be more. In our quest to #BeELITE, we often forget to stop and reflect and simply say "thank you". To pause and take the time to tell those that make our lives better that we appreciate them for all the little things and big things they do to enhance our journey.

Within the Hilliard City Schools, we focus on instilling a passion for growth in ourselves, our staff and our students. We push ourselves to #TheEdge each day to be the best for our students, colleagues, district, parents and the community we serve. We expect to be at the top of our profession. We push to be innovative, to take risk, to demonstrate a growth mindset and to stay above the line. We strive to provide a world class experience for our students that prepares them to be ready for tomorrow. We believe we have created this environment within our district because of the amazing staff that we have in front of our students each day. Those staff members all are relentless in their pursuit to #BeELITE in their classroom for their students.

So today we pressed pause and took time to simply say "thank you". To show gratitude for all the little and big things these professionals do each day to create a first class experience for our students. To let them know that they are appreciated and that their hard work does not go unnoticed. These teachers demonstrate a passion for growth which has created a classroom culture that promotes risk taking and fosters student growth both academically and socially! They are preparing students to be Ready for Tomorrow! THANK YOU!

We hope you enjoy reading about the HCSD Walks of Gratitude! 

Hilliard Darby High School

Allyson DeMoss, Online Monitor
Allyson DeMoss does not have the easiest job in the world.  Throughout the day, she sees many students who struggle either academically, socially, or mentally in our online room.  Some of these students she has worked tirelessly for many years to build a relationship with.  Allyson gives each of these students a safe place for them to work on academics away from the distractions of everyday school.  She is consistent and fair to all students and helps them individually when they need help.  We have seen Allyson grow into a great mentor for a lot of our students here at Darby HS.  We are excited that Allyson is a Panther!

Brenda Ribble, Secretary
Brenda is vital to the operation of the main office at Darby High School.  She is knowledgeable, self-directed, organized and detail oriented. She takes great pride in her work and she is invested in making Darby HS a fantastic place to be.  Her friendly demeanor and helpful nature make everyone feel welcomed in her presence.  She is a creative problem solver and a valuable teammate at Darby.

John Riegel, Orchestra Teacher 
John Riegel has served as the Orhestra Director at Hilliard Darby High School since 2000 and has been the Performing Arts department facilitator since 2002.  The faculty and students at Darby High School take great pride in the performing arts and Mr. Riegel has been an integral part in the success of his department.  Mr. Riegel is an expert in his field and always puts his students first.  In 2017 Mr. Riegel was the Ohio Orchestra and String Teacher Association – Public School Teacher of the Year.  Our students and staff are blessed to have Mr. Riegel at Hilliard Darby High School.

Connie DelaCruz, Science Teacher 
Connie is one of the most loyal, hardworking teachers that Ive ever been around.  She has served as the Science department head at Darby Hs and while teaching a wide range of students in the classroom.  As a dept head, she has led with poise and grace.  Connie has a calming presence that has allowed her to effectively unify a diverse group of teachers.  In the classroom, Connie is always well prepared, utilizing activities that are data-based and always students centered.  She believes that differentiation and personalization are musts for students to truly succeed and she works to make this happen.  Connie is a key component to the Darby culture and climate; we are so very lucky to have her on our team!

Kathy Williams, Business Teacher 
Kathy has been a great role model for her students throughout her years of service here at Darby. Kathy has always been professional, kind, and willing to help others. We are going to miss Kathy as she prepares to move on to the next chapter of her life. Not only are we going to be losing a great teacher but more importantly we are going to be losing a great person. Thank you for all that you have done during your time here at Darby H.S. We wish you the best of luck in your retirement.

Hilliard Heritage Middle School

Kathleen Litt

Kathleen is a teacher who continues to push herself out of her comfort level.  She has always been a good team player, but her willingness to be a part of committees and pull out days, which is not her favorite, is something that is really appreciated. 

Alicia Tremayne

Alicia is part of a dynamic Duo at THE Heritage that works so closely together that they have definitely finished each others sentences before.  The continue to develop data driven, student centered classrooms and fun and meaningful experiences for their students.

Elaine Lindenbaum

Elaine is part of a dynamic Duo at THE Heritage that works so closely together that they have definitely finished each others sentences before.  The continue to develop data driven, student centered classrooms and fun and meaningful experiences for their students.

Angie Granchi  

Angie is an important member of THE Heritage.  Not only is she a tremendous teacher, but she also is a leader and go- to person on our staff.  She is one of the first teachers we take visitors to when they enter the building, because she represents what we want THE Heritage to be about…Caring about students, Supportive of everyone, and someone who is willing to step out of her comfort level to help.   

Hilliard Station Sixth Grade School

Kimberly McCann
Kim is nothing short of a rock star!!   She is what makes Station a well-oiled machine.  She is on top of every penny that is spent at Station and always gets us the best deal for parent teacher conference dinner!   Kim has a huge heart and cares deeply about our team at Station.   Kim will do and has done anything to help support our staff!

Lindsey Tackett
Lindsey is a phenomenal intervention specialist.  She gets to know her kids and designs her instruction on how to best meet their needs.  Multiple times this year we have asked her to help with students not on her caseload and she has always helped out.  Lindsey even went to another school to help out with testing.  We are so thankful to have Lindsey at Station!

Kristin Konopka
Kristin is a fantastic math teacher and is one of our student council advisors.  Kristin is constantly collaborating with her colleagues on best practices and ways to engage her students.  She has a passion for math and challenging her students to be critical thinkers and problem solvers.  Station is a better place with Kristin on staff.  

Thank you to our ELITE administrators for the leadership and supporting a culture that values relationships! #CultureMatters

Hilliard Darby High School - Joyce Brickley, Matt Middleton, Chad Schulte, Adam Walton and Chris Ludban

Hilliard Heritage Middle School - Matt Trombitas and Nic Gaston

Hilliard Station Sixth Grade - Lauren Schmidt and Jake Grantier

With Gratitude,

Dawn Sayre, John Bandow and Jeremey Scally

HSCD Elementary Walk of Gratitude

In today's society we are all so busy. We constantly are pushing ourselves and each other to do more and to be more. In our quest to #BeELITE, we often forget to stop and reflect and simply say "thank you". To pause and take the time to tell those that make our lives better that we appreciate them for all the little things and big things they do to enhance our journey.

Within the Hilliard City Schools, we focus on instilling a passion for growth in ourselves, our staff and our students. We push ourselves to #TheEdge each day to be the best for our students, colleagues, district, parents and the community we serve. We expect to be at the top of our profession. We push to be innovative, to take risk, to demonstrate a growth mindset and to stay above the line. We strive to provide a world class experience for our students that prepares them to be ready for tomorrow. We believe we have created this environment within our district because of the amazing staff that we have in front of our students each day. Those staff members all are relentless in their pursuit to #BeELITE in their classroom for their students.

So today we pressed pause and took time to simply say "thank you". To show gratitude for all the little and big things these professionals do each day to create a first class experience for our students. To let them know that they are appreciated and that their hard work does not go unnoticed. These teachers demonstrate a passion for growth which has created a classroom culture that promotes risk taking and fosters student growth both academically and socially! They are preparing students to be Ready for Tomorrow! THANK YOU!

We hope you enjoy reading about the first in a series of HCSD Walks of Gratitude! 

Brown Elementary – Amber Furr
Amber is an exceptional teacher! When I think of our VBO’s, she exhibits all 3! Amber will “stand up and own” when she does not know something, would like clarification, or just wants to learn more. She has a true “passion for growth” as she willingly jumped on board with Blended Learning, Literacy Framework (Franki Sibberson’s work) and Math coaching opportunities to improve her instruction. Finally, Amber is a true team player and leads Brown’s Kindness Club. Another extraordinary thing about Amber that not many people know, is that she struggles with a disease that has her in pain more days than not. Despite this challenge, she never complains or draws attention to herself. Amber shows up for work every day with a positive attitude and displays true perseverance and grit!

Avery Elementary – Tina Johanni
It is an honor for me to select Tina Johanni as Avery's nominee.  Tina has been with Avery for the past two years in our cafeteria.  She greets students and staff with a warm smile all day every day. Tina is always sweet and energetic. Tina goes above and beyond for all our students no matter the situation. Staff began to recognize her positivity within her first few days at Avery.    It is an honor to work with Tina on a daily basis!

J. W. Reason Elementary – Jerry Bickel
I appreciate the many things Jerry does in our school – he goes above and beyond!

Norwich Elementary – Beth Kaufman
Beth is a shining example of "Power of the Team".  Beth is in and out of many classrooms in her role, and she makes each student and teacher she works with feel as if they are her only responsibility!  She takes great pride in getting to know her students on a personal level and they always look forward to their time with Mrs. Kaufman.  Beth also 'broadcasts' happiness in her daily roles.  She is always smiling, checking in on others, and showing great spirit in her work.  Her positive energy is contagious to all of those around her.  Beth is also flexible and goes above and beyond to support others when needed.  She is always looking for ways to grow professionally and has the highest level of professionalism.  We are fortunate to call Beth part of the team at Norwich!

Darby Creek Elementary – Tom McGinnis
Tom is an essential member of the Darby Creek community.  He is beloved by students because they genuinely feel that he cares about each one as a unique and important individual.  Tom quickly establishes relationships with students, engages with them through playful interaction, and takes the time to listen as children share the details of their lives with him throughout the many school environments.   Tom is the superhero of the school – he is everywhere you need him to be and willing to do anything that might be necessary.   In addition to the connections and relationships he establishes and maintains with students, Tom’s leadership on the custodial team at Darby Creek is exceptional.   He is always mindful of the many details that are required in order to prepare and maintain the building at the start and throughout each academic year.   Because of his commitment to details being attended to with the highest work ethic, the physical space at Darby Creek is clean, safe, and inviting.

Alton Darby Elementary – Joanne Clayton
I would like to nominate Joanne Clayton, my secretary extraordinaire! Joanne stepped up when my other secretary moved to Cincinnati and quickly learned to do crucial tasks that she had not done before. She stays late and will often catch up over the weekend to make sure the next week is as smooth as possible.   

Ridgewood Elementary – Nicolette Landon
Nicolette’s passion for coaching is exemplified not only in schoo,l but whenever and wherever one may be when talking about learning.  Nicolette has the knowledge and natural ability to collaborate with peers and offer support to push teachers to their edge and help them grow professionally while focusing on the needs of students.  Nicolette’s positive demeanor helps contribute to her success.  You will find her helping teachers in school, Central Office, Hilliard U, at home, and even in a grocery store!  Nicolette is a true ambassador of Ridgewood and Hilliard City Schools.

Horizon Elementary – Kim Sutton and Suzy Dawson
Kim and Suzy go above and beyond the role of secretary. They wear many hats throughout the day and get little gratitude. Horizon is a busy school with lots of action happening every minute. Thank you for organizing and supporting our days to make it such a successful place for kids. Many times the praise goes to the teachers and the administration for all of the work that is done, but it is Kim and Suzy that keep us running. Thank you for giving your time and love to the students and families that walk into the office. You are the smiling faces that start the day and the encouragement to students that end the day.     We are so grateful for all you do!

Alton Darby Preschool – Michelle Tomek
With many changes in building personnel, Michelle has been a vital part of making this transition happen effectively and efficiently.  Michelle truly exhibits Power of the Team and Think We, Not Me!  Her dedication to the team has a positive impact on the entire building.  The staff greatly appreciates all of the time and effort that Michelle gives to our students and families.  Michelle’s passion for our students and the building culture is what help makes HCSD such a great place to be! 

Hilliard Crossing Elementary – Sandy Nagy
Sandy goes above and beyond for our students on a regular basis.   Even as a tutor, Sandy has stepped up and taken the lead in the ELL department as we transition in our new ELL teacher.   Sandy has come in on her own time to test students and has helped to maintain our sanity as we have been inundated with many new ELL move-ins.   Sandy has been maintaining our ELL database, analyzing pre-LAS/LAS tests to answer staff and parent questions and has worked tirelessly to schedule students into support groups.  Sandy realizes that she has become the ELL “expert” in our building and has taken the new staff and students under her wing.   In addition, Sandy has stepped up to lead our student leadership group (Choose to Lead) when our current staff stepped down.   Sandy will do anything for any of us and has truly modeled the Think WE mentality for all of us at Hilliard Crossing!

Washington Elementary – Scott Stevens
Mr. Stevens' impact on Washington Elementary can be seen and felt from the moment you walk in the door. Not only is he an extraordinary art teacher who uses a studio approach to encourage student voice and choice in their learning, but he is also the creator of all things "Wolfie." Mr. Stevens goes above and beyond for his students, and he also builds connections and partnerships with our Washington community through his work with our art club and PTO. He is also a leader in our One2One initiative providing tips, tricks, and troubleshooting help to our entire building. His positive attitude and problem solving mindset is an asset to our leadership team, and he is respected and appreciated by his colleagues. He embodies what it means to "think we not me," and he truly makes Washington a great place to work and learn for our staff and students. Thank you Mr. Stevens! 

Britton Elementary – Teresa Blake
Teresa has become an essential part of the Britton Community, working tirelessly to support staff, students and families.  Her positive energy is contagious, and she continuously goes above and beyond the described duties of her job as secretary to make sure that everyone Is connected and successful.  She is detailed and efficient in all her work, kind and nurturing to our kids, and responsive to the needs of our staff.   No matter what the request – if she is able, Teresa is willing.   Her love for our Britton family is evident, and Britton is a better place because she chooses to give her talents to us.