It’s that wonderful time of the year again — back-to-school season! The joy of new supplies, new routines, and the anticipation of eager students fill the air. The store shelves have been cleared, and your classroom may already be buzzing with activity. You’ve likely created the most adorable bulletin boards and prepared your All-About-Me papers to send home to parents. However, as educators, we understand the start of a new year is more than just organizing desks and lesson plans. It’s about preparing to support our students’ social-emotional learning. One of the most effective ways to do this is by focusing on Generosity and gratitude. 

GRATITUDE

As Colossians 3:15 (NIV) says:

 “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

Teaching students to focus on what they are grateful for shifts their moods and creates an environment of peace and positivity. (It can do the same for us, too!) Whether you start the day with a mindful minute or allow your students to write down three things, they are grateful for at the start of every morning, gratitude invites God’s peace into your classroom.

GENEROSITY

Generous Classroom teaches students about The 7 Ways of Living Generously. Generosity goes beyond sharing materials. It’s about being generous with your thoughts, words, money, time, attention, influence, and belongings.

From helping a friend with an assignment to encouraging a struggling peer, Generosity reflects the love of Christ in action. Acts 20:35 (NIV) reminds us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

When your students learn to be generous, your classroom becomes a place where individual strengths are celebrated and happiness is shared.

PUT IT INTO PRACTICE

So, how can you begin to teach gratitude and Generosity in your classroom? Begin each day with a gratitude practice. Invite your students to write down three things they are grateful for each morning. Integrate books, community service projects, or a curriculum that teaches the importance of Generosity. Create spaces where students can reflect on being generous — not with just their belongings — but with their words and actions, too!

This year, let’s teach our students academics while growing their hearts full of kindness. Encourage them to have hands ready to help others with their minds rooted in gratitude. With gratitude and Generosity, your classroom can shine brightly for Christ and be a safe space where every student feels valued and loved.