Have you ever tried to get anywhere without having any sort of map or sense of the correct direction to go? It is not very effective and for many, it leads to feelings of confusion or defeat. For some, supporting individuals through programming and education can feel like that as well. There are so many different routes to take when attempting to provide meaningful instruction to any individual while considering each of their unique strengths and needs.
At Giant Steps, while we are faced with the same complex road to navigate, we have a very special compass that always helps us find our way – our students and participants.
For the month of October, our core GS CARES value has been Student/Participant Centeredness. Being Student/Participant Centered means keeping the individual at the center of every decision you are making. In this way, our students and participants become our “true north.” Sometimes this means creating highly individualized goals and supports. Sometimes it means spending hours in discussion with members of the student/participants’ team (including their families) to create a plan of action. Sometimes it even means allowing the student/participant to be an active part of making the decisions. Whatever the case, keeping the student/participant at the center of the discussion is sure to reveal the best path to help them to realize their full potential.
We will shift our focus to another value next month, but will continue to keep our students/participants at the center of ALL that we do knowing that with that very special compass, our path will always be clear.
Check out our Instagram page for more pictures that represent GS CARES.