Following the strategic planning kick-off meeting at the Chicago Friends School last weekend, I was charged with asking the students what they hope for the school. My class began by brainstorming what we like about the Chicago Friends School now. Some of the examples were the nice students and teachers, after-school care, having math workbooks,…
Feelings Detectives
As my class wraps up our unit on empathy in our Second Step program, I am reminded how important this is in the world right now. We have a vision for a world where all people are valued and respected, regardless of their race, gender identity, or socioeconomic level. Recent events have reminded us of…
Honoring MLK’s Legacy in the K–1 classroom
This week my students studied the importance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We read the picture book biography Martin’s Big Words by Doreen Rappaport. The book described scenes from King’s life, beginning with his childhood experience of seeing “White Only” signs throughout his hometown. He questions his mother about their meaning, and she assures…