Positive Youth Development

Wallace Academy uses the Positive Youth Development framework as the foundation for our behavior management practices and youth programming. By focusing on the Six C’s, we create an environment where young people feel valued, supported, and inspired to achieve their full potential. Through our commitment to Positive Youth Development, Wallace Academy empowers young people to grow into confident, compassionate, and capable individuals who contribute positively to their communities.

Key strategies include:

• Strength-Based Approach: We recognize and build on each young person’s strengths rather than focusing on deficits.

• Youth Voice and Choice: We involve youth in planning and decision-making processes, ensuring their perspectives and ideas are heard and respected. The students are given a platform at the Student Council, which meets weekly, to bring forth ideas and propose changes. 

• Opportunities for Growth: We design programs that challenge youth to step out of their comfort zones while providing the support they need to succeed.

• Safe and Inclusive Spaces: We cultivate a sense of belonging by fostering a welcoming environment where diversity is celebrated.

What is Positive Youth Development? Positive Youth Development (PYD) is a holistic approach that emphasizes the strengths and potential of young people rather than focusing solely on their problems or deficits. This framework is rooted in the belief that all youth have the capacity to thrive when provided with the right opportunities, relationships, and support. PYD encourages programs and practices that help young people build essential life skills, develop meaningful connections with others, and contribute positively to their communities.

At Wallace Academy, we believe in the transformative power of Positive Youth Development and use it as the foundation for all our behavior management practices and youth programming. Our commitment to PYD ensures that every young person we work with is given the tools, support, and opportunities they need to succeed.

The PYD approach is grounded in extensive research on adolescent development, resilience, and social-emotional learning. Studies have shown that fostering protective factors—such as positive relationships, a sense of belonging, and opportunities for skill-building—can help young people navigate challenges, improve their mental health, and achieve long-term success. By focusing on strengths and creating supportive environments, the PYD framework equips youth with the tools they need to thrive both personally and socially.

The Six C’s of Positive Youth Development The PYD framework is often summarized through the "Six C’s": Competence, Confidence, Connection, Character, Caring, and Contribution. Here is how we integrate the Six C’s into our work at Wallace Academy to foster positive youth growth and success:

1. Competence

   • Definition: Building young people’s skills in academic, social, and vocational domains.

   • Our Approach: We provide opportunities for youth to engage in skill-building activities, such as project-based learning, on-site and off-site work experience, and collaborative problem-solving. These experiences help them gain confidence in their abilities and prepare for future challenges.

2. Confidence

   • Definition: Developing a strong sense of self-worth and belief in one’s ability to succeed.

   • Our Approach: At Wallace Academy, we celebrate individual achievements and create a supportive environment where youth feel empowered to take risks and learn from failures. By fostering a growth mindset, we help young people see themselves as capable and resilient.

3. Connection

   • Definition: Establishing positive bonds with peers, staff, family, and the broader community.

   • Our Approach: We focus on building trusting relationships at Wallace Academy and facilitating group activities that promote teamwork and empathy. Strong connections provide a foundation for emotional support and guidance.

4. Character

   • Definition: Cultivating a sense of morality, integrity, and respect for others.

   • Our Approach: We incorporate lessons on healthy decision-making, personal responsibility, and respect into our programming. Through service-learning projects, youth practice values such as honesty, kindness, and accountability.

5. Caring

   • Definition: Encouraging empathy and compassion for others.

   • Our Approach: At Wallace Academy, we engage youth in activities that promote kindness and community service, helping them understand the importance of contributing to the well-being of others. Restorative activities encourage them to recognize the impact of their actions.

6. Contribution

   • Definition: Empowering youth to give back to their communities and make a positive impact.

   • Our Approach: We provide opportunities for youth to lead initiatives, volunteer, and participate in decision-making processes. By contributing to their communities, they develop a sense of purpose and agency.