Issue link: https://trevordayschool.uberflip.com/i/1315612
reinforcing positive thinking and asking good questions—such as "How should I act in this situation?" In a 3rd-grade classroom, we found this poster: "You are important. You are beloved. You are the reason we are here." There were also clear messages (both written and graphic) about the importance of an individual's personal space, or "oma tila." At all of the schools, the joy and friendliness were palpable and infectious. Trusting students and affording freedom are crucial Student freedom (what Trevor calls discretionary time) was ubiquitous. Every hallway in every school was lively and energetic, with students interacting with peers and teachers, collabor- ating on interdisciplinary projects, or socializing. Some students took these breaks as an opportunity to head to the gym, the art studio, or simply find a cozy place to read. In the 1st–7th grade school cafeteria, the furniture arrangement is designed to be flexible; it functions as a commons and also serves as a performance space. We could have been in the Middle or Upper School Common Rooms! In Viherlaakson, an "interactions agreement" is prominently displayed on the media center windows, a central location in the building. Within this agreement, reinforced student-to-student communication included: Examples of teacher-student interaction expectations included: These statements were created communally with student input—not unlike Trevor's Lower School's Class Contracts—and are revisited periodically. In addition to the equipment one expects to find in a media center— video equipment, a range of 3-D software, and the like—this space included couches, a piano, and a cabinet filled with board games. It also has a space with multiple projectors and speakers that, as the curtains come down, make an immersive 360-degree experience. n We take everybody along to play with us; nobody is left alone. n We help each other. n We do not speak badly about each other behind someone's back. n We really want to be with everyone. n We try to be friendly and kind. n We say hello and pay attention to everyone. n Respect: We will behave and talk kindly to each other; we will listen and be polite to each other. n Fairness: We will support a peaceful atmosphere in the classroom, follow instructions, and give everyone a chance to speak. "own space" 3 3 T R E V O R D AY S C H O O L n W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 – 2 0 2 0