Eastport-South Manor junior-high rolls out Lighthouse advisory, WIGs and survey tracking

Principal Sal Lamo and assistant principal presented the junior-senior high school's effort to give seventh- and eighth-graders a distinct middle-school identity through advisory time and Leader in Me habits.

The program added a Lighthouse Committee of teachers, counselors and special-education staff to design advisory lessons and celebrate student progress with "WIGs" (Wildly Important Goals) and huddle-up accountability cards. The presenters described advisory as a time for Leader in Me lessons, team-bonding, MTSS interventions and guidance push-ins on topics such as vaping.

One presenter cited recent survey results: about 75% of junior-high respondents reported having an adult at school they trust, roughly 86% said they feel welcome, and about 80% said they feel safe. The presenters said they plan regular check-ins, "2 by 10s" (two minutes per student for 10 days) and quarterly surveys to reach students who do not yet report a trusted adult.

Board members asked about continuity of the habits across grades and whether ancillary teachers are included. Presenters said training—including superintendent conference training and follow-ups—has extended to team leads and ancillary staff to create continuity from elementary through high school.

What happens next: the district will continue advisory implementation, track WIG progress and bring additional updates to the board as the program expands.