Dear Parents,

I am excited for the opportunity to teach your children and help them to achieve success through our program. As an alternative education placement, we hope to get to know each student as individuals so that we can tap into their interests and strengths both personally and academically. I believe in approaching curriculum through a variety of motivational theories in the hopes that your child will not only learn the material, but actually enjoy the process while theyre doing so. The rst approach I use is known as Self-Determination Theory. All this means is that I teach material in a way that will hopefully (1) make your child feel secure and comfortable (2) give them the opportunity to express themselves in an environment free of judgement and ridicule (3) allow them to trust others and themselves (4) show that I care about them as individuals and as students. It is extremely important that each student learn respect for others and for themselves. We are here to work together in a positive, productive and supportive manner. Through such interactions I hope to strengthen the bond of the class which, in turn, will promote a successful and supportive learning environment. The second approach I like to use is known as Social Cognitive Theory. Adding to the feeling of positivity that we have (hopefully) begun to establish, students work collaboratively on activities and assignments to develop a positive sense of self-efcacy. Working together they nd their strengths and discover that they do, in fact, have what it takes to succeed! Lastly, Goal Orientation Theory is essential to the success of our students. Our program works on the fundamental premise that a students success and achievement should be measured based on their individual accomplishments, not the class as a whole. Meaning, no two students are alike and therefore should not be compared to one another. All students work at their own pace and level to ensure personal academic success. My hope is for all students to feel secure in their abilities and trust that they are capable of success. Through these motivational approaches I seek to foster a positive, nurturing academic environment where students not only feel they belong, but that they are an active part of making their lives better through education. Sincerely, Blair Brownlee Burr & Burton Academy Target Program