What is the Morning Meeting at Nova Pioneer?

Morning Meetings at Nova Pioneer is more than just a routine; it’s a cornerstone of our daily schedule, fostering a sense of community and belonging. This start-of-day class meeting provides a daily opportunity for students and teachers to reconnect with each other, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. Each morning, we gather together to sing, greet each student by name, and engage in a unique classroom ritual designed by teachers and students. These rituals reinforce our belief that every individual is an important and necessary part of the learning experience.

Literacy and numeracy songs and activities are integral to Morning Meeting, allowing students to review and practice these essential skills. This time also provides teachers with an opportunity to assess student progress in a relaxed and supportive environment. Importantly, Morning Meeting is a protected time, shielded from disruptions and unnecessary distractions, ensuring that the class community can focus on connecting and preparing for the day’s learning. Emergent thoughts and ideas from students can be seamlessly integrated into the day’s discussions and woven into ongoing investigations, making learning more relevant and engaging.

Why Have Morning Meetings at Nova Pioneer?

Builds Community and Collaboration: Morning Meeting fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration among students and teachers. By starting the day together, everyone feels more connected and supported.

Frames the Day: It provides a structured start to the day, helping students transition smoothly from home to school. By outlining the day’s plan and sharing important news, students know what to expect and can mentally prepare for the day ahead.

Gets the Cognitive Juices Flowing: Engaging in literacy and numeracy songs, as well as taking attendance, helps to activate students’ brains and get them ready for learning. This initial mental stimulation sets a productive tone for the rest of the day.

Focus on Culture Principles and Social-Emotional Learning: Morning Meeting offers a dedicated time to discuss our Culture Principles, address issues affecting the school or class, and promote social and emotional learning. This time for connection is crucial for building a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.

In Practice

Timing and Structure: Morning Meeting occurs every day at the beginning of class, starting at 7:30 AM. For our younger students, the meeting lasts 15 minutes, while for older students, it extends to 20 minutes.

Seating Arrangement: The class is seated in a circle, with students and teachers sitting at the same level. This arrangement promotes equality and openness, making everyone feel included and valued.

Roles and Responsibilities: One teacher leads the meeting, while the other teacher supports by helping with classroom management. This collaborative approach ensures that the meeting runs smoothly and that all students are engaged.

Core Components: Every Morning Meeting includes the following key elements:

• Educational Songs: These songs are both fun and educational, helping to reinforce literacy and numeracy skills in an enjoyable way.
• Attendance Taking: This simple act ensures that every student feels acknowledged and accounted for.
• Plan for the Day and Important News: Sharing the day’s agenda and any important announcements helps students feel informed and prepared.

Morning Meetings at Nova Pioneer are a vital part of our educational approach, emphasising the importance of community, collaboration, and connection. By starting each day with this dedicated time, we ensure that our students are not only academically prepared but also emotionally supported and engaged. It’s a powerful way to set the tone for a successful and fulfilling day of learning.

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