Dear Morningside Center friends,

November is Native American Heritage Month. In this issue, we share lessons and teaching ideas, as well as activities on Thanksgiving and gratitude.

Plus, a new article on affirming and welcoming all after-school students - and some additional enriching reading. Enjoy!

Does Your OST Program Support Every Student?

In their new article in AfterSchool Today, Morningside Center's Bryanna Kolja and Sully Diaz tell the story of "Scout," a non-binary sixth-grader who found a true refuge in our after-school program.

Bry and Sully share how all OST programs can consciously build connection, community, and belonging through regular activities that affirm every participant. Read more.

Resources for Teaching on Indigenous History & Culture

Indigenous People's Day and Native American Heritage Month (in November) are an opportunity to learn about Indigenous peoples' history, culture, and perspectives. 

Thanksgiving and Gratitude

Lessons to explore gratitude and American history surrounding the Thanksgiving holiday. This collection includes three ways to use the Thanksgiving holiday as a teachable moment for your students, and two lessons on gratitude

What We're Reading

What’s the Kindest Thing You’ve Seen a Student Do?

"On the days when it feels too hard to be a teacher, I remember this student and the lesson we both learned that year about not giving up. I'll always appreciate her kindness in writing that letter."

By the Educational Leadership Staff at ASCD

Teaching About the Violence in Palestine and Israel 

"One cannot understand this tragedy without acknowledging its history. While many education groups are providing resources for teaching about the crisis as a 'conflict' rooted in antisemitism and Islamophobia, that sole emphasis is misleading" At the Zinn Education Project

‘We Exist': How to Learn About Native Americans

Through Native lenses, a Navajo scholar offers insight and resources for educators. By Farina King at Education Week

“This is crucial for educators and everyone to understand—we exist.” - Navajo scholar Farina King