Dear Morningside Center friends,

We hope that this season of joy and warmth is filled with both for you. And that you were able to experience our GivingTuesday giving back to educators and caretakers in our schools! Morningside gave away essential lesson and support bundles for educators who signed up for this newsletter. And we thank everyone who helped that happen!

Below you'll find a new interview about the power of circles, as well as lessons on free school meals and the winter holidays.

As you know, we have been asking ourselves, who is caring for the caretakers? since the pandemic. So, we spent the last two school years laser-focused on building a system of care. Find out more about the work our donors have made possible, and please consider a gift to grow this work and support the 3,000+ educators we will care for in 2025! Abd thank you to everyone who can give a gift at this vital moment for our students and educators.

The Transformative Power of Circles: Part II

Today we travel with Bronx middle school ELA teacher Robin for a deeper exploration of Circles. Robin was one of more than 740 educators who took Morningside’s Tier 1 training this July—and a member of my cohort. I’m delighted to share with you my conversation with Robin—and all of her insights and experiences, helping us put descriptions to the question, What is a Circle?

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New & Featured on TeachableMoment

Providing Free School Meals for All Students

This lesson consists of two readings on free school meals programs in the US. Questions for discussion follow each reading as well as a small group activity in which students consider other universal programs that could benefit young people. 

Holidays: Sometimes Happy, Sometimes Not 

The holidays are not always a joyful occasion, especially for those facing hardship or stress. In this activity, students share feelings about the holidays and consider how they might provide some encouragement for those who are struggling. What do your students need? We are ready to provide. 

Sharing Stories: Building Family & Classroom Connections 

Students engage family members in sharing stories of their history, dreams, or struggles - and share these stories with their peers.

Teach for Joy and Justice!

Joy & Justice for you, educators and our kids!

Join Morningside to support & advocate! A second batch goes to print today at midnight, so don't wait, snag a hoodie while you can!

"...everything we need to make positive change is already here. We have it. We have the wisdom ourselves. We have the knowledge. We can find ways to access that together."

- Kay Pranis