Philosophy

It is the philosophy of The Winnetka Public Schools to provide a comprehensive K-8 Kinetic Wellness program through developmentally appropriate instruction and evaluation best serving the needs of the whole child. Much opportunity lies in our ability to address the growing health challenges that are facing children and youth. Winnetka's comprehensive kinetic wellness programs offer great potential for enhancing the capacity of student's minds and bodies in a safe, noncompetitive atmosphere.

Leadership Program and Skokie High Ropes Course

You're in for the educational adventure of a lifetime. When you hit the ropes course it will challenge you to balance on, climb over and maneuver around a high experietial learning initiatives. These individual and group activities are definitely hands-on, and they're definitely exhilarating. Constant supervision by expert facilitators maintains a high level of safely at all times. It is truly a learning experience.

The Kinetic Wellness staff began this process two years ago. The idea was to bring a program to Skokie School that everyone would feel successful and accomplished. The high initiatives is an element of our program that compliments an already established program of leaderships, sportsmanship, respect and concern for others, and teamwork. The students will experience teamwork free of competition and begin to act from courage instead of fear.

The ropes course is a series of high initiatives designed to build teamwork and encourage group activity in problem solving through experiential learning. Each activity presented to the group is a hands-on opportunity to recognize skills that are essential in improving communication and building trust levels. The course is also designed as a personal adventure experience which helps enhance self-esteem, encourages risk taking, and build confidence. Participants are taught to apply the skills, concepts and attitudes they learn to life situations.

There are group challenges that are designed as icebreakers, cooperation, and paying attention exercises. These initiatives gradually increase building trust and teamwork. The children will then move to the HIGH INITIATIVES that are elements geared to individual experiences but still rely on group support. After each activity, time is spent giving the group an opportunity to share thoughts through journals. Because the program is non-competitive, the course is a safe and exhilarating learning experience for everyone.

CLIMB ON!

Leadership Program
Leadership Jobs
Parent Letter
Student Application (PDF)
Advisor Recommendation
Exploratory Recommendation

Kinetic Wellness Teachers

Andy Becker
Petra Dietz
Mike Hynes
Christime Murray
Curt Wilson