"It mattered that I came."
We started the year together in a Responsive Classroom professional development training. We learned and were reminded about the critical and intentional practices we create to develop strong relationships from the very first minute.
The converse is also true. We deliberately create community with the same intentionality and commitment until the very last minute we say good-bye. Kids need our support in a very different way right now.
You worked wonders getting to know each and every student and making all the efforts to connect with them. So,while they are excited about summer, this means saying good-bye and knowing they won't be hanging out with you every day anymore. They aren't talking about how that makes them feel - they don't even know what all these emotions are that they are feeling. It's confusing for them. They want to move forward, and they also want you to go with them.
We want kids leaving school feeling good. By ending the school year this way - intentionally building a scaffold just as we did in the beginning - it leaves kids looking forward to the next school year. They feel empowered and believe that it mattered that they came.
Responsive Classroom tips on finishing the year
Last Week Calendar of Events:
Week of May 29th - June 2nd:
Monday - No school (Good start to the last week...)
Wednesday -
9:15: The Beat
1:30 Gather together to formally wish our Crew members, who are stepping into their new adventures, our deepest best wishes.
2:00 Personal time (here or away from school) before Closing Ceremony.
(Setting up SLP interviews for this time)
6:30 - 8:30 Sixth Grade Closing Ceremony
(Please arrive a little early to help us set up the Drum Circle and prepare. There is the opportunity during the Drum Circle for ANY teacher to speak to the students what is on their heart.)
* All staff members are invited and welcome to stay for the whole evening, and it's also okay to leave after the Drum Circle.
Thursday -
Last day of school
9:30: All School Drum Circle (details to be shared by facilitators)
* BE SURE you have communicated your plans to Deborah and front office and Zina - depending on how your plans might impact the system. Thanks in advance!
*No students should be taking their drum home. Some kids get confused when they see a few students carrying their drum out (these are kids leaving).
Friday -
Work day:
Morning:
* Moving folks to new classrooms
* Helping folks move out
* Helping folks move in
Afternoon:
* Personal time for closing the year
Celebration:
4:00 ish at Deborah's
"Good endings leave children with feelings of pride in their learning, and that prepares them for another good beginning the following fall."
Marlynn Clayton
Now...go breath into a brown bag and I'll see you next week😎
Have a wonderful three day weekend!
Deborah
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