Mrs. Lisa Foster and Ms. Jessica DeTorre join their second grade classes at Wilkins Primary
School for a daily classroom meeting with their students. The primary goal of the meeting
is to teach good citizenship’s five themes — honesty, compassion, respect, responsibility,
and courage. The student led meetings begin with the students reciting the following:
“We are here, at Wilkins Primary, because I am somebody, I am
somebody. I respect myself, I am responsible for myself. I’m not afraid
of mistakes, because I have what it takes. To be a success, I must do
my best. I can be whatever I dream to be, or anything I care to be. But,
what I care to be is ME. I am somebody, I am somebody.”
Each month the students learn an inspirational song that ties in with the themes of
citizenship. The students enjoy choreographing and performing movements to the lyrics.
Often, these songs relate to current events that affect our students’ lives.
The meeting concludes with daily reflections which challenge the students to think
and talk about their day. Taking part in these group activities, talking about the themes
of citizenship, and making connections to the students’ lives are key to developing a
deep understanding of
citizenship. Through these
meetings the classes have
become a school family and
each student leaves the
classroom knowing they
are kind, smart, important,
and loved. Upon exiting
the meeting the students
recite “We are exiting this
classroom with positive
thoughts on our mind and
the love of learning in our
hearts.”
Rooms 211 and 213
WOODLAND HILLS
❘
SPRING 2018
29