Mount Pleasant Magazine Sept/Oct 2020

32 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.VOICEforMP.com feature will also be interwoven, with ways to deal with stress,” she said. Built into the middle of each day are two more blocks of valuable “me” time for students. Based on a national EL Education model, the school will be implementing Creating Relationships, Exploring Within (CREW). CREW is a locally approved course that allows students to get class credit. For 40 minutes each day, approximately 15 students meet with a teacher to build positive relationships, monitor academic progress and develop character. “We got the idea from River Bluff High School in Lexington, South Carolina, an EL Education school,” explained Dassing. Claire Gatlin, Director of School Counseling for Beckham High, added: “The single most important thing to a child’s success is a relationship with a trusted adult. CREW ensures that.” Lunch will follow CREW. It will be 50 minutes, so all students and teachers have the same time to eat, catch up with friends, play a sport and generally decompress. Students will have the run of the school — not just the cafeteria. “It sounds daunting, but I like to say, ‘that’s the best that can happen?’” Dassing said, smiling. “Giving them space also relieves social pressures between peer groups and gives kids a chance to eat alone in a classroom, if they prefer.” During their junior and senior years, students will have an AP option — CAPSTONE or Research, depending on their interest — that will add an extra layer of community interaction. Blum is thrilled to hear that Beckham High School will be tackling student stress and anxiety in such a proactive way. “I want to get the elementary and middle school kids and their parents and teach them time management and coping skills, so that by the time high school comes around, things are in place,” he commented. With Mount Pleasant schools addressing these issues now, perhaps, in due time, students will feel they have the necessary support to achieve success. Claire Gatlin, Director of School Counseling for Beckham High. Upscale hand-me-downs at pleasing prices Children’s Clothing & Shoes • Maternity Books Toys • Games • Strollers & More! For Volunteer / Consignor Registration and Event Details visit: www.charlestonrepeats.com October 16-18 Sale at Patriots Point Online Shopping September 28- October 8 New Location 264 N. Shelmore Blvd Mount Pleasant, SC 843.881.2364 info@bakiessc.com www.BakiesSC.com