Washington School follows the Responsive Classroom approach to teaching and learning. The Responsive Classroom is a curriculum structure that combines the teaching of social and academic skills in a manner that is respectful of children's developmental needs at different ages and that helps create a classroom climate conducive to purposeful work, creativity, and cooperation. 

Morning Meeting is an effective instructional approach that helps to integrate the academic and social curriculum, as well as create a feeling of community membership. It also helps to set a positive tone for the day in a way that teachers and students can be more responsive to each other's needs.

Morning Meeting has four sequential components:

1. Greeting
2. Sharing
3. Group Activity
4. News and Announcements

Morning Meeting will take place daily for a period of 15-30 minutes. While children are eating breakfast and/or completing before-school activities, they are individually greeted by the teacher. A warm greeting and some special words build a positive relationship with students.