Barkley MicroSociety News


Barkey students ratify constitution

The students of the William H. Barkley Microsociety Magnet School gathered on Wednesday, Oct. 8 in the school courtyard to ratify the Barkley constitution.

Two student representatives from grades 3,4 and 5 have been meeting twice a week since the first day of school to write the school constitution that represents all members of the Barkley school community.

The entire Barkley community witnessed the ceremony which was held in front of the old 5th Ward school bell. The bell was rung after all of the representatives signed the constitution.

The next step for the students will be to elect the officers and representatives that will govern the school.

What is a MicroSociety?

A society is more than just a location on a map, in the same way a school is more than just a building. A society is a shaped by many factors, such as businesses, government, courts, schools and, most important, people. Understanding how these factors operate and interact can help put students on the path to success, not just in school, but in life as well.

The Barkley MicroSociety will create a microcosm of the real world with participation from each student, who will:

  • Take an active role in their learning

  • Establish a government, legal system and a bank

  • Operate businesses that produce goods and services

  • Earn micromoney, pay taxes and maintain a checking account

  • Serve as elected officials

  • Create a common purpose for their class and/or school community

Our Mission

The mission of the William H. Barkley MicroSociety Magnet School is to provide students with a quality education so they will make healthy decisions throughout their lives and contribute positively to society as adults. The Barkley MicroSociety will help students develop academic and creative problem solving skills, strengthen their work habits and enhance their values and self discipline.

Guiding Principles

Student achievement is our ultimate goal. Therefore, we are committed to the following principles:

  • Student Voice & Choice
    Students play a large role in helping to design the school community and their input is sought regularly.
  • Learning by Doing
    Students learn best when they are engaged in meaningful lessons.
  • Entrepreneurial Spirit
    America is the land of opportunity. The entrepreneurial spirit motivates students to pursue new ideas and opportunities.
  • Real World Experiences
    As students progress from grade to grade, their learning will be enhanced by increasingly sophisticated economic, social and political experiences.
  • Teachers as Facilitators
    Teachers integrate a variety of learning styles and provide multiple opportunities for success.
  • Shared Responsibility & Authority
    Opportunities for students to serve in leadership roles, make meaningful decisions and accept responsibility for outcomes.
  • Parents as Contributors
    Parents and guardians are essential contributors to the learning community.

 
 
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