NCJ Number
149765
Journal
NASSP (National Association of Secondary School Principals) Bulletin Volume: 75 Issue: 538 Dated: (November 1991) Pages: 50-58
Date Published
1991
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article describes a California alternative school that applies William Glasser's control theory and reality therapy techniques to meet both the affective and cognitive needs of students.
Abstract
Glasser's control theory postulates that all human behavior is based on the individual's attempt to satisfy five generic needs: survival, belonging, power, freedom, and fun. The mission of the Apollo School in the Simi Valley Unified School District is to provide a place where both students and staff can satisfy their needs for belonging, power, freedom, and fun in the pursuit of learning and teaching. The role of the staff is to provide a quality environment in which quality teaching and learning can occur. Staff focus on being effective lead-managers by using their knowledge of control theory and reality therapy techniques to maintain a caring, supportive, and cooperative relationship with students. Students are expected to produce quality work while learning at their own pace or in a cooperative learning setting. All student productive efforts are recognized and rewarded. The effectiveness of this approach is shown in student performance in State and district testing, the low rate of student pregnancies, the career success of graduates, improved attendance, a reduction in suspensions, and the virtual elimination of in- house vandalism. 3 references