Back to School Firsts

The back-to-school season is a time filled with firsts and fresh beginnings. As students return to their classrooms, they embark on new practices that will shape their classroom communities for the school year, and we are here for it.

For many students, this time of year holds a special significance. Kindergarteners are learning to navigate the classroom environment, experiencing their first snack time, and participating in their first group activities. Meanwhile, fourth graders are excited to finally take part in the dessert theater they’ve eagerly watched for the past three years, marking a transition from observer to participant. While in the middle and high school the torch is passed to new sports team captains, new student council officers, and club leaders.

These firsts are not only about individual growth but also about belonging to and with your community. “This isn’t a school you come to, this is a school you make.” Ms. Archer reminds us.

Elementary teachers play a crucial role in helping students come together to envision a working community environment. They lead a circle on building a class agreement. In Ms. Byler’s class, she is there as guide, but her third graders brainstorm, write, and share guidelines for creating a safe and welcoming classroom atmosphere.

The 3rd Grade Class Agreement that they came up with (and that changes every year) includes actions like helping each other, building each other up, and being mindful of reactions towards peers and teachers. It emphasizes mutual respect and kindness, laying the groundwork for a positive school experience and is the baseline for the students and teacher who practice and experience peacemaking.

Another first, EMES began the year meeting in the new Gathering space for their weekly gatherings. Ms. Archer introduced the year’s Gathering theme, “Hope in the Wilderness,” encouraging students to embrace bravery, resilience, and the ability to flourish despite challenges. Through stories like “Life” by Cynthia Rylant and reflections on biblical teachings, students are reminded of the importance of growth, perseverance, and grit.

Many blessings to our students, families, and communities as they support their many firsts!