New elective at Bernardo Yorba creates space for students to learn community familiarity and practice social skills

Bernardo Yorba Middle School (BYMS) has introduced a new elective class this year for students who would benefit from community-based instruction (CBI). The importance of community skills is often taken for granted when they come easily. These skills include, but are not limited to, money management/organization, time management, public transportation use, and social skills.

“Since the CBI elective class takes place every, day but going out into the community each day is not totally feasible, I thought that having students raise money each month for the community outings would fit in perfectly with the intent of the class,” shared BYMS teacher, Mrs. Gerry. “This month we are making and selling friendship bracelets. The students enjoy learning all different ways to make a friendship bracelet and they’re practicing life skills at the same time. They’re problem solving, working together as a team, making goals and managing both money and time.”

According to the school, the friendship bracelets have been a huge hit and the Matadors are super excited about it. A total of 146 bracelets have sold in just two days, raising a $146.00 so far!

“At the end of September, we will ease into our CBI’s by walking to 7-11 for Slurpees,” Mrs. Gerry said. “In October, we plan to make a trip to Costco for a scavenger hunt and lunch.”