5th Grade Practices Inclusivity

The freedoms of Middle School are an exciting and daunting new opportunity for 5th graders. “How do I get to class on time?”  “What if I can’t open my lock?”  And “Ooh! I get to sit with my friends at lunch!” While the choosing their seats at lunch can be a great perk, it can be stressful.  

Last week during CPR, 5th graders discussed ways to be inclusive and how it can feel when they are excluded. Students discussed questions like, “What do you do when you can only invite a certain number of friends to a sleepover?” They also practiced starting conversations with new people and getting to know one another. As a culminating activity, 5th graders played “Entourage,” a game in which defeat turns into success as they cheer for one another.  

Next Monday, 5th graders will begin Mix it Up Mondays. Each Monday they will sit at lunch with an interest group based on things they shared during our morning Circle of Power and Respect (CPR). Interests include: favorite book genre, hobbies, favorite foods and tv shows. We are excited for students to be able to share interests with new friends.