Responsive Classroom Approach
UNIS Junior School follows the Responsive Classroom approach. This approach is a way of teaching that creates a safe, challenging, and joyful classroom and schoolwide climate for all students. Teachers who use the Responsive Classroom approach understand that all of students’ needs—academic, social, emotional, and physical—are important. In the classroom, teachers adapt strategies to address students’ needs. Most days will begin with a gathering of students for Morning Meeting. This routine builds a sense of community and belonging while giving students practice in key academic and social skills. Each classroom teacher develops a quiet signal often using chimes or chants to get the children’s attention. The Responsive Classroom philosophy treats mistakes in a positive way and our teachers see mistakes (in academics and in behavior) as important steps in learning. They encourage students to learn from their mistakes and “try again.” They offer support and reteach as needed. At the same time, teachers provide clear expectations for behavior and stop misbehavior quickly so that students can focus
Our Junior School faculty collaboratively developed school wide essential agreements
Having schoolwide Essential Agreements sends the message that there are common expectations for all of Junior School. These agreements serve as the basis for us to guide students towards positive behavior.
Some of our common themes are:
- Respect the learning community/Treat others with respect/Be kind and helpful/
- Responsibility for self and others/Take ownership of learning/Feel safe/Be trustworthy/Be empathetic/
- Responsibility for the environment/Care for the school materials
Treat others the way you want to be treated
Be responsible for what YOU say and do
Be respectful of our school environment