A program adopted at BIS this year is designed to encourage students to become active learners, focused workers, good teammates, and problem solvers—all essential skills for success in and beyond the classroom.
How It Works
Principal Will Machallister and Assistant Principal Alex Forsthoff will visit classrooms daily to identify engaged learners. BIS Counselor Rob Stafford will also be popping into the classrooms and logging student engagement. Students demonstrating engagement will earn special Make It Count tickets, which teachers collect. The tickets are submitted the next morning, with students earning additional bonus tickets through participation in Explore classes and Target Time groups.
Tracking Progress and Celebrating Success
The competition aspect of the event keeps students motivated, with a bracket tracking the number of tickets collected in each classroom updated daily and displayed at lunchtime. This encourages friendly competition and pushes students to stay engaged throughout the school day.
“Make It Count March is not just about academic performance—it’s about building lifelong skills in responsibility, teamwork, and perseverance. By embracing these qualities, students at Bayfield Intermediate are truly making their education count!” Machallister said.
The Importance of Engaged Learning
“Engaged learners are more motivated, curious, and successful. BIS recognizes that when students are actively involved in their education, they find lessons more meaningful and enjoyable,” Forsthoff stated.
The initiative encourages students to embody four key traits:
- The Active Listener: Focuses on understanding lessons rather than just responding.
- The Focused Worker: Completes assignments diligently, without distractions.
- The Good Teammate: Contributes to group work, offers support, and motivates peers.
- The Problem Solver: Seeks help when needed, perseveres through challenges, and helps classmates.