Celebrating Community
As teachers, we spend a great deal of time and energy creating a strong community. Whether we teach the littles or the ones who are ready to graduate, establishing this sense of belonging within our learning spaces is so important. As the end of the year is approaching, this is a wonderful time to celebrate the community you have cultivated together.
Many students may not be looking forward to summer or the end of the school year. The questions like, “What are you going to do this summer?” and “What are you most excited about?” may leave some students without an answer. Focusing on what you have built together this year and celebrating these experiences can invite a powerful opportunity for positive closure for all students. Here are a few ideas for incorporating community celebrations in your daily activities:
Student Sharing Prompt: In one word, how would you describe our classroom community?
Class Art Project: Create a community collage using 3x5 cards
Student Writing Prompt: What is your favorite memory from this school year?
Student Sharing or Writing Prompt: What legacy do you want to leave at _____ school? (This one is especially powerful for students who are in their last year of elementary, middle, or high school, getting ready to go to a new school.)
