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:
- Greeting
- Sharing
- Group Activity
-
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.