Last Six Weeks of School
May 10, 2021 | Bridget O'Dowd
At the beginning of the year, the first six weeks are a time of building. Students are gradually introduced to materials, learning to use and care for them, and practicing routines. These six weeks are slow, steady, and necessary to achieve a cohesive learning environment. Similarly, the last six weeks pose an equal value.
As we enter into this season of endings, during these last six weeks of school, students will slowly begin to unbuild the classroom. They will notice that the classroom timeline is nearly completed and we will remember the work we did throughout the year.
We will gradually say “goodbye” to materials that are no longer used. It may be a book from the beginning of the year, a rhyme that we chanted or games that we have played. So, for a couple of days, students explore the materials they have used before putting them away.
We meet as a class to reflect on the learning that has happened and take time to remember…
We share our memories and the shelves will once again gradually become bare.
Just as we seek to begin well, this process of unbuilding helps us to end well, with intentionality in thought, word, and action. This helps students have a sense of closure to the school year.
Children share and remember work that they are proud of.
Ending the year with a sense of accomplishment and pride in the their work prepares students for a new beginning in the fall.
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