Canary Islands School Wins Excellence Award for Proactive Student Well-Being Model
The IES Benito Pérez Armas high school has received a 2025 Excellence Award from the Canary Islands Ministry of Education for its proactive, student-centered approach to well-being and conflict prevention.
Managing student behavior in schools is no longer just about discipline; it has become a vital part of providing a high-quality education. The IES Benito Pérez Armas high school was recently honored by the Canary Islands Ministry of Education with a 2025 Excellence Award for its outstanding approach to student well-being and safety. This award, shared with ten other schools, marks a shift from simply reacting to problems to a proactive, structured way of preventing them.
The success of the school, which serves 620 students, comes from an internal support system designed to spot vulnerable students early. Led by principal Esther Alonso, the school chooses to be transparent about the challenges of school life rather than ignoring them. The system relies on a network of teachers who act as points of contact, supported by a "reference teacher" for each grade level. This allows anyone—from parents to staff—to report concerns through a simple form, ensuring every student gets the help they need.
The school also provides personalized support through dedicated tutors and specialized programs. Additionally, they partner with organizations like Aldeas Infantiles, whose social educators provide psychological and academic help, ensuring that even students facing disciplinary action stay connected to their studies.
A standout feature of this model is the use of 27 "student helpers." These students, who are easily identifiable, act as a first point of contact for their peers. They receive quarterly training to help them mediate conflicts and provide academic support. Coordinated by Ruth Rodríguez, who oversees bullying prevention, this initiative has changed the school’s culture. Teachers no longer feel overwhelmed, as there is now a clear, coordinated plan for handling issues.
By integrating active breaks and dedicated spaces for listening, this model proves that modern educational excellence isn't just about grades. It is about creating a safe environment where emotional well-being is the foundation for learning.