This ongoing class features a “whole child” approach and offers students valuable opportunities for social-emotional learning, character building, and connecting with others. Each class will begin with a brief check-in, an activity that addresses the affective domain by building a sense of inclusion and mutual caring and helping each child feel acknowledged and valued. From there we will participate in class discussions that focus on moral and character development and emphasize strong work habits and social skills. The goals of these brief conversations are to inspire children to maximize their amazing potential, build a sense of purpose, embrace a growth mindset, and increase student motivation to learn and succeed. The conversations will center on thoughtfully chosen quotes, engaging short videos, and/or writing prompts. 
	As a 28-year classroom teacher, I very much looked forward to our daily morning meetings because they encourage kids to think deeply, because there is an uplifting tone to the dialogue that appeals to the best in people, and because it allows the group to start the day on a positive note. Further payoffs to consistent use of this activity include better student behavior, stronger work habits and social skills, improved attitudes towards school, greater enthusiasm for and increased dedication to learning, more connections made between school and students’ present and future lives, and enhanced vocabulary development. 

Schedule for the Next 4 Weeks of Class:

Week of December 19th: Morning Check-in, Quote of the Day (The band “Live”), Watch & discuss “Growth Mindset” video

Week of January 9th: Morning Check-in, Quote of the Day (Aristotle), Watch & discuss Nick Foles video

Week of January 23rd: Morning Check-in, Quote of the Day (William Arthur Ward), Introducing the Tower of Opportunity

Week of January 30th: Morning Check-in, Quote of the Day (Willie Wonka), Watch & discuss Kevin Durant MVP Acceptance Speech video