Establishing a thriving learning environment is instrumental in students obtaining personal success. We must be strategic in how we develop our classroom communities at the beginning of a new school year. The setting must support the whole child, adapting to the needs of the group as everyone settles in for the yearlong learning journey. The environment must specifically be designed to support the health and safety of our students, strengthening the emotional well-being of each individual. While providing an atmosphere that supports learning endeavors from every angle, students can be offered many opportunities to be truly engaged and challenged.
But how do we guarantee that we WILL develop a solid foundation that supports the whole child?
I recommend intentional inspiration:
- Engage. Find a meaningful way to reach your learners. Identify colors, symbols, and a motto that supports the yearlong learning theme. Allow this inspirational concept to reach learners from all avenues. Use this theme to connect learners' thinking and experiences across the content areas. Infusing a foundational concept that motivates students to rise to the occasion will make an incredible difference and establish the tone within your learning community.
- Connect. Meet your students where they are. Take the time to get to know each individual. An understanding of your students' academic strengths and challenges should be balanced with knowledge