A Reflection on Valentine's Day in 5th Grade

As the students streamed into to room, they seemed to have a special bounce to their step today...


Many students brought valentines to share. They had carefully written their classmate's names on the card, and attached a treat with care. When it was time for the gift exchange, students walked around the room excitedly to share with their friends. I was impressed by how much of a community this class had become. Everyone in the room was part of a bigger whole. When one student didn't have Valentines to share she just helped her friend to pass her Valentines out. This is an example of how accept each other and work to help each other. 


Students had the opportunity to decorate their mailbox (bags) and as usual, their creativity was delightful to witness. Paper folding is popular in our class, so many built 3d mailboxes with hearts that jumped out. As I looked across the room I could see each student had infused their personality in their bag's decoration. 


None of this happened by accident. I have been lucky to witness my resident teacher set the example of how to treat everyone with respect. She has thoughtfully encouraged students to be kind to one another and really made us feel like one team that is a part of something important. When disagreements happen, students communicate with respect and find common ground that can bring them together again. My resident teacher uses restorative justice to ensure that the focus isn't on punishment, but on repairing the relationships between people. These special days will last in our memories as a time that creativity thrived and so many important concepts were learned.

Lining up the heart.

3d heart 

delicately cut lace adorns this mailbox.


Bright and ready for goodies!

Personal interests are proudly displayed here.

bouncing and happy.

A love of cows can be seen on this mailbox.

This student loves technology, and it shows!

Overflowing with fun!

Sorting through and choosing a treat to eat.

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