During the 2014/2015 school year, I was a supply teacher at the RMS Academy campus. Early in the year I was called in on a day where I had the opportunity to attend an assembly. I helped the grade 1 class get ready to go to the gymnasium, and as we lined up I heard and saw the excitement the students felt, because they were going to see their siblings and friends in other grades. It was amazing to see the smiles on their faces upon entering the gym, and how respectful they were when entering quietly. This demonstrated to me that the students knew how to behave in a collective gathering environment, which can often be challenging.
As I waited for the assembly to start, I noticed that the gymnasium was full; all the teachers were there with their classes, and a large part of the administrative team and senior management were also there. I began to realize that assemblies bring the school community together like a family. In our homes we build values in our children. During assemblies, the students always leave with something they have learned, including important values. For example, on Remembrance Day students were able to learn about respect. Respecting others and ourselves is a value that is taught every day. Near the beginning of the school year respect was one of the values of the month. By making connections between assemblies and what we teach in our classrooms, we provide children with a cohesive learning environment that helps students better understand of the importance of values.
The values I saw in the students during my time as a supply teacher encouraged me to work hard to someday get a full-time position at the RMS Academy. My dream came true, and now every day I have the opportunity to teach my students positive values. My favourite assemblies are on Spirit Days, where I have had the opportunity to be a part of the team-building activities that make everyone feel a part of the school community. I smiled so much hearing my students cheer me on. We always talk about the assemblies afterwards in our classroom. As every day goes by in my Prep-ONE classroom, we take time during morning circle to talk about the value of the month and values from previous months. Teaching students good values will nurture them to be great people today, tomorrow and in the future.
Click the link below to watch a short clip of a typical Spirit Day Assembly as the students hear their house team totals!
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