This year, eighth graders have a new tool in helping them develop a positive self-image and view themselves as potential future heroes. Guided by Upper School faculty member Leslie Rowland-Yeh, each student is completing her own Hero’s Journal, which is connected to their year-long study of heroes and the hero’s journey. “Each day, students write in their journals about their progress on their chosen quest for self-improvement,” noted Rowland-Yeh. “They identify allies who will help them on their quest and enemies who may hinder them. Each day, they list three things they are grateful for and three things they need to do that day to make progress on their quest. Research has shown that practicing gratitude can improve daily mental health, and this is one more way Ashley Hall demonstrates its commitment to socio-emotional learning.” Let the journey commence!