"Like Being at the Breakfast Table"

Like the 3rd graders in this article I am convinced-"Morning Meeting is a strategy whose time has come." I am ready to implement this strategy today! All I need is my classroom! Oh, I can't wait!
I have spent years observing different teachers. I have watched some not so good teachers, some pretty good teachers and some really good teachers. (I would qualify the really good teachers as those who created a community in their classroom. ) I know I want to be one of those really good teachers. I have wondered over the years how these teachers do it, how do they create that sense of community, family, love and respect in their classroom? I figured it was because their students just knew they were loved and respected. But now I finally know the secret! Kriete (1999) describes the type of classroom I want to create, he wrote, "Morning Meeting is a microcosm of the way we wish our schools to be-communities full of learning, safe and respectful and challenging for all." I will have the ability to create this type of environment from day one! Thank you for introducing me to Morning Meeting!!!!!!!!
The structure of Morning Meeting is so simple yet so effective. The first part is the Greeting. The greeting is used to help the students gain a sense of belonging, and a chance to practice verbal and nonverbal communication skills. The second part is Sharing. Sharing gives students the chance to "develop and practice skills of listening, presenting to a group, taking turns, formulating questions and taking different perspectives." (Bondy and Ketts 2001) The third part is the Group Activity. The group activity is sometimes linked to the curriculum and/or sometimes is just for fun. The group activity, however is vital in developing cooperation and group identity. The final part is News and Announcements. This step helps provide a transition from Morning Meeting to the rest of the day and can also incorporate some of the skills the class has been studying.
While reading the rationale for Morning Meeting I kept thinking-you are singing to the choir! While watching my own children go through school I have come to understand the importance of the classroom environment. As a teacher I want to create an environment where my students have a sense of trust, respect and belonging, I want my students to become responsible citizens, to learn how to cooperate, be assertive, be responsible, develop empathy for others and self-control. I know the social environment has a huge effect on students, their attitudes, their willingness to learn and the overall academic achievement of everyone in the classroom. I have waited for 2 semesters to find out how I can accomplish creating the type of environment I want to create! I feel so empowered! I am ready to be Mrs. Johnson!