On A Mission
1/19/2018
In this classroom, we will try to learn and have fun and help others learn and have fun.First grade's school guidelines project has provided an authentic context in which to frame the necessary conversations we have had as a combined class about why we are in school and the choices we need to make because of that. This week, each student had an opportunity to share a reason they come to school, and we analyzed the list to come up with a class mission: In this classroom, we will try to learn and have fun and help others learn and have fun. The mission will serve as a reminder of why we are in school and will help students make sure their actions and choices throughout the day align with that. One way we practice making choices that align with our mission is through examples and non-examples. Students model choices that will NOT help them or others learn and have fun, immediately followed by modeling choices that will help them and others learn and have fun. This is a fun and effective way to reinforce expectations, and the entire class is always giggling by the end! I think it is important that a class mission statement inspire a growth mindset, and our mission does just that. Trying to learn and help others learn involves embracing challenges, taking risks, and collaborating with others and having fun helps students remember to enjoy the process, both when learning is fun and when it is challenging. Using the reasons we come to school to create a class mission laid the foundation for using the school's mission statement to create the school's guidelines. Just like our actions in the classroom should reflect our class mission, the guidelines we choose for the school should collectively help students and teachers make choices that align with the school's mission. Next week, students will unpack PNA's mission statement and use it to evaluate and refine their proposed school guidelines. We educate students to be exceptional learners and independent thinkers of vision, courage, and integrity.They will be responsible for presenting and explaining the guidelines to Student Council and, once approved, to the entire school. The class mission will provide the framework to help students create a community of learners and make choices that contribute positively to our shared purpose. I look forward to students applying this concept to the entire school next week and delving into what makes PNA such a special environment in which to learn and grow.
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Hali TuomiMs. Tuomi has over five years experience in ASD, where she taught first and fifth grade classrooms. An avid skier, Ms. Tuomi is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Alaska Pacific University’s Bachelor of Arts in K-8 Education. Archives
April 2021
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