Morning Meetings in Grade 5, Littles, and Grade 3
In our Gillispie classrooms, we’ve integrated the Responsive Classroom approach, which emphasizes the critical role of social-emotional learning in academic success. We focus on creating an environment where every student feels safe and a true sense of belonging, enabling them to build meaningful relationships with peers and adults that spark deeper engagement, nurture a growth mindset, and ignite a lifelong passion for learning.
You can see this in action every day at Gillispie. Students gain confidence as they contribute during Morning Meetings and collaborate on classroom rule creation. Reflection routines help students learn to express their needs, understand how others feel, and work through disagreements constructively. In these ways, our students gain resilience and a stronger sense
of self.
Here are some Responsive Classroom tips for families at home:
- Model active listening at home. When your child speaks, give them your full attention—this teaches them their voice matters.
- Encourage reflection. Ask questions like, “How did that make you feel?” or “What would you do differently next time?”
- Foster independence. Allow children to solve small problems on their own before stepping in.
- Promote kindness. Celebrate small acts of compassion your child shows toward others.
Learning starts with connection. When students feel seen and valued, their capacity to grow is limitless.
Want to learn more? Join us for our Admissions Open House on Friday, November 14 at 9:00 a.m. Sign up here.