Arlington Middle School Implements Leadership Program - House of Cards and Arlington Eight

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Arlington Middle School Implements Leadership Program 

House of Cards System Features “Arlington Eight” Values 

Written by Jillian Heacock

On Thursday September 25,  Arlington Middle School had their first ever Draft Day. On draft day, the new “House Of Cards”  system was introduced to the students. The purpose of this system is “a way to build community, encourage positive behavior, and celebrate our school values,” said Mrs. Niese, middle school science teacher.  

For the draft, each middle school student was chosen randomly to be a part of one of the four houses (Hearts, Diamonds, Spades, and Clubs). These houses are apart of a point system, where throughout the year they will compete for the most points, earned by following the “Arlington Eight”: RED PRIDE, Respect, Excel, Dignity, Positivity, Responsibility, Integrity, Discipline, and Empowerment. At the end of each grading period, the house with the most points earns a prize, and then the points reset for next quarter. 

Following the Draft, the students participated in Team games to earn their first points for their houses. Students grades 6th - 8th  implemented the “Arlington Eight” among their houses while playing games including the tallest card tower competition, a memory flip game, an ultimate relay race, and a change up game. 

“Draft Day was very fun and enjoyable, and even inspiring!” says Garret, Arlington 6th grader. 

Arlington’s teachers and staff hope to allow kids to form new friendships, leadership skills, and good habits. 

According to students and teachers, the day was a success: 

•  “I enjoyed all the games, and can’t wait till the next House game day.” - Addi, 8th Grader at Arlington
• “It was awesome to see the positivity and enthusiasm from the 6th, 7th, and 8th graders.” -Mrs. Metzger, Middle School Math Teacher
• “I think the house system will allow them (students) to build team work skills and friendships outside of the classroom” - Mr. Vermillion, Middle School Math Teacher