Binder Hospital
THE IDEAL BINDER
· 2” heavy-duty binder
· Avoid canvas zip-up binder
· 5 Plastic tabs for each subject
· Fabric pencil pocket clipped into binder
· Plastic/vinyl “Homework Folder” with two pockets on the inside. Three-hole punched to fit in binder. Label one inside pocket “to do” and other side “turn in”
· Lined paper in each section
· Graph paper in Math section
· Agenda provided by school
HOW IS THE PROGRAM FUNDED
The Binder Hospital is staffed by parent volunteers and is funded by the Kentfield School’s PTA.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Binder Hospital Program is a volunteer-run program aimed at helping 5th and 6th graders develop stronger organizational skills. Our goal is to assist students who have been identified by a teacher/staff as needing extra help with their binder and/or organization. The student works one-on-one with a parent volunteer in a non-judgmental and confidential environment. We provide a safe and supportive opportunity for students to reorganize and get a fresh start.
We offer both instruction and school supplies to each student as needed. If the student’s current system can be modified to allow for the programs critical components, we simply make the necessary changes. If it’s determined that a new binder would be helpful, we have supplies on hand.
If new binder/supplies are needed, we customize a binder for the student using a proven method for organization. We then assist the student in moving all important materials into the new binder and send older work home for storage. We spend time explaining each component of the new system and the importance of developing new organizational habits. The initial visit is about 25 minutes long and our goal is to have the student leave the appointment understanding all expectations and knowing that they are on their way to success.
Success of each student depends upon their investment in the process, long-term commitment to establishing a new habit and family support. Appointments are made by teachers based upon established criteria.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. How will my son/daughter know if they’ll be visiting the Binder Hospital? Your student will receive an appointment card with the date and time from one of their teachers. The teacher will explain the goals of the program and share why they think it will be helpful.
2. When are the Binder Hospital appointments? Appointments are scheduled during the lunch period. If necessary, an appointment may be scheduled during a non-academic class on an exception basis.
3. How do students feel about participating in the Binder Hospital program? While we are serious about our goals, we are non-punitive and strive to be encouraging and supportive while educating students on organizational methods.
4. How can I sign up my child for a Binder Hospital appointment? If you feel your son/daughter needs organizational support, please review our information sheets listed here on the website. You may simply need to review the pages with your child to help set them on the right course. Before requesting a Binder Hospital visit, try guiding your child through the steps first. If you think your child needs further assistance you’ll need to speak to one of your child’s teachers. Appointments can only be made by a teacher or staff member.
REVISED Feb. 2014