Keshet Middot: Values-Based Program
Setting relationships as the foundation for learning
Relationships are the heart of the GMLS program. Our focus on building nurturing, inclusive, and joyful classroom communities and developing social-emotional skills set the stage for meaningful learning experiences and academic success. Our teachers ground their approach to children in the student-centered principles of the Responsive Classroom philosophy framed by Jewish values.
Our shared Responsive Classroom practices across all settings include:
- Morning Meeting
- Collaborative Rule Creation
- Encouraging Intrinsic Motivation
- Positive Teacher Language
- “Take a Break” (Positive Time Out)
- Logical Consequences and Restorative Discipline Practices
- Collaborative Problem-Solving
- Academic Choice
Developing character
Each year, we explore, develop, and apply seven character traits through our Keshet Middot character development program. Our middot are guided both by Jewish teachings and core ethical values. The Keshet Middot instills a culture of kindness and respect, making our school a safe and joyful environment for students to learn.
Our Keshet Middot for the 2024-2025 school year are:
- Yosher: Honesty
- Kavod: Respect
- Chesed: Kindness
- Sakranut: Curiosity
- Optimiyut: Optimism
- Yetziratiyut: Creativity
- Hatmadah: Perseverance
Prioritizing developmentally responsive teaching
All decisions for teaching and discipline are based upon research and knowledge of students’ social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Because we know children learn best when they have both strong academic and social-emotional skills, we intentionally teach skills such as disagreeing respectfully with a classmate in a discussion, or working collaboratively with a partner, just as we teach reading comprehension and math concepts.
