Dear Morningside Center friends,

In this issue, we share a new lesson for elementary students that celebrates singer and lifelong activist Harry Belafonte, who died on April 25.

And, as this school year begins to wind down, Morningside's Dionne Grayman and Nicole Smith-Johnson reflect on how we can begin to create a culture of care in our schools. Plus, our latest readings. Enjoy!

How to Create a Culture of Care in Schools – and Why

Start small. Do one thing: co-plan lessons with colleagues or visit each other's classes. Create a staff playlist. Beautify a shared space. And then do another thing. Dionne Grayman & Nicole Lavonne Smith-Johnson share their wisdom.

The Banana Boat Man! A Lesson on Harry Belafonte

In this lesson, elementary students hear Harry Belafonte singing the Banana Boat song, learn about Belafonte and his call for justice, and sing their own call-and-response song.

Most school and district leaders are happy with their job

A recent survey by the EdWeek found that despite the challenges school and district leaders have faced over the past few years, 80 percent say they are satisfied with their job, and 70 percent said it was unlikely they'd leave their job in the next two years. “It can feel good to be back into a new normal, and to see opportunities to grow and work differently with kids and families," said one superintendent.

Washington State assault weapons ban was fueled by student activists

"If Congress won’t pass a federal assault weapons ban, students will keep fighting to do so at the state level," writes the cofounder of the Seattle Student Union. By Natalya McConnell in Teen Vogue.

A surprising remedy for teens in mental health crises

"Teen Mental Health First Aid is designed to give students the practical tools they need to recognize warning signs and help a friend through a mental health crisis." By Anya Kamentz at the Hechinger Report

“You can cage the singer, but not the song.” 

- Harry Belafonte