Morning Gathering sets the tone for respectful learning and establishes a climate of trust. It motivates children by helping them feel a sense of significance and belonging. When we start the day with everyone together, face-to-face, welcoming each person, sharing news, listening to individual voices, and communicating as a caring group, we make several powerful statements. We say that every person matters. We say that the way that we interact individually and as a group matters. We say that our culture is one of friendliness and thoughtfulness. We say that hard work can be accomplished and important discoveries can be made by playing together. We say that teachers hold authority, even though they are part of the circle. We say that this is a place where courtesy, warmth and safety reign – a place of respect for all.
Morning Gathering takes place daily at The Willow School. The session is guided by our Virtues Program. A faculty member, administrator or sometimes students will facilitate the gathering. Stories are read, poems recited, or presentations are made. The entire student body meets every Monday and Friday. On Tuesday and Thursday, students meet by division, and Wednesday is set aside for individual classroom gatherings.