WE HAVE TAKEN IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL BY INTRODUCING A HOUSE SYSTEM TO EXEMPLIFY AND CELEBRATE OUR HOUSE RULES.

This exciting initiative brought students together, promoted healthy camaraderie, and provided a safe and supportive environment for students to learn, stumble, and succeed. We started the year sorting students into houses, paving the way for a new era of belonging, collaboration, and friendship.

Each of our four houses represents an important piece of our school’s history and the values that have made us who we are today. House Melcher and House Rosner are named for our co-founders, Patti Melcher and Jerome Rosner. House Watt is named after our longest-serving board chair, Mary Watt. House Nelson is named after our long-time neighbor, whose iconic tree still graces our playground.

THE HOUSE SYSTEM: FOSTERING UNITY AND COLLABORATION
The house system is a time-honored tradition that many schools worldwide have embraced. It divides the student body into smaller groups or “houses,” each with its own personality and leadership opportunities.

BENEFITS OF THE HOUSE SYSTEM
Sense of Belonging: By placing students into houses, we give them more opportunities to belong in both bigger and smaller ways. Students develop a strong connection with other students and adults in their houses and with the larger school community.

Mentorship and Leadership: Older students will take on leadership roles within their houses, acting as mentors and role models for younger students. The connections built between students promote a sense of responsibility and enhance their leadership skills as they prepare for mainstreaming.

Personal Development: The house system provides numerous opportunities for personal growth. Students learn to work in teams, communicate effectively, set goals, and manage their time efficiently.

Supportive Environment: House relationships often extend beyond academics. Students find social and emotional support, build camaraderie, and develop friendships that can last a lifetime.

The Joy School’s house system filled the school with spirited house competitions, collaborative projects, and a supportive network extending far beyond the classroom. The house system aligns perfectly with our school’s mission to help every student return to traditional classroom settings by reaching their academic and social potential in a safe and supportive environment.