The first week of school is such an exciting time! I’ve enjoyed reconnecting with returning students and building relationships with our new students across program levels. I extend my gratitude to our faculty and staff for their concerted efforts in working with students to create classroom norms.
Establishing routines and guidelines during the first few weeks of school is crucial in setting the tone for the classroom. This helps to create an environment where students know what to expect and encourages them to bring their best selves to the learning environment. When students actively participate in crafting these guidelines, they feel a sense of ownership over their environment and are more likely to engage in problem-solving when situations necessitate adjustments.
For instance, students in Upper Elementary and Middle School have been involved in creating classroom constitutions. Through various activities, they identify qualities essential for a peaceful environment, which then inform the expectations to uphold such an environment. This initiative fosters a solution-oriented mindset. Similarly, in Lower Elementary and Children’s House, even younger students benefit from structured routines and expectations established at the beginning of the year. This approach cultivates independence and self-sufficiency, emphasizing the importance of routines in helping children feel secure and safe.
As parents, your support in establishing routines and guidelines at home can significantly contribute to your child’s development. Involve your children in decision making and consistently follow through with your expectations. Through this collaborative effort, both in school and at home, we can empower our students to thrive in an environment that fosters growth and success.
