New class aims to help decision-making process
SANDPOINT - Decisions, decisions, decisions.
Teenagers are faced with a barrage of decision making as they enter their high school years. Some are simple; others carry an effect that lasts a lifetime. What experts tell us is that many adolescents don't have the capacity to visualize long term consequences of these choices. They don't think about a driving accident when drinking and driving. They don't understand the lifetime commitment of an unplanned pregnancy. They fail to grasp the consequences of credit card purchases that mount and mount. With schools busily teaching students the basics to master ISAT testing, there is little time and resources to teach about decision making skills and life choices.
Community members Mary Jo and Jack Ambrosiani have decided to do something about it.
"We understand the pressures on the public schools and the funding issues. However, what we see in the community tells us that kids need a class that will help them to understand the choices they will face. They need to be prepared to make the right decision."
As a result, the Ambrosiani-Pastore Foundation approached LPOSD Superintendent Dick Cvitanich and Sandpoint High School principal Becky Kiebert and Clark Fork High School principal Phil Kemink about their idea. They volunteered to fund a full-time teaching position for the school district with classes to be held at both SHS and CFHS. The three school leaders jumped at the opportunity. Kiebert, whose doctorate is in counseling, anticipates the class being very well received at her school.
"As a former high school counselor, I believe this class is right on target. I will be encouraging my own daughter to enroll," Kiebert added.
Erin Roos has been hired to teach this class at both schools and eagerly looks forward to meeting students and helping them to understand the challenges ahead. Roos, who previously was a science teacher at Sandpoint Middle School, is anxious to begin.
"This is a dream come true for me. Even as a science teacher I saw students who were struggling with difficult choices. This is what I have a passion to teach. I feel fortunate to return to the classroom in this role."
School officials and the Ambrosianis concede there is no comprehensive curriculum that addresses all of the needs, however they are confident in Roos' ability to tap into what students need.
Clark Fork Principal Phil Kemink may have summed it up best. "This is a great opportunity for kids. Learning to avoid mistakes can change their lives. I am truly grateful to the Ambrosiani-Pastore Foundation."