OBJECTIVE:

Students will begin the school year by reflecting on who they are, what matters to them, and what they hope to accomplish. They’ll write a letter to their future selves that captures their intentions, dreams, and commitments for the year ahead.

REQUIRED PREP:

Transform your room – Next Gen sessions should be different from typical classes — change the atmosphere of your classroom and get ready for your first session!

Opening Huddle

Goal: Conduct the cohort ritual and mood check.

Feel free to play music to generate energy and set the vibe!

Opening Ritual: Conduct your opening ritual! 

Mood Check: Gather the students into a circle (standing or sitting – keep comfort in mind)!

Activity 1: Vision Mapping Warm Up - 25 mins

  • Give each student a blank sheet of paper and markers/pens.
  • Ask them to draw or write in 3 sections:
    • Personal: What kind of person do I want to be this year?
    • Academic/Professional: What do I want to learn or accomplish?
    • Social/Community: How do I want to show up for others?
  • Students can write words, doodle, draw symbols — encourage freedom of expression.
  • Optional: Pair share or small group share if time allows.

Activity 2: Letter to My Future Self - 20 mins

Instructions:

  1. Give each student a lined sheet of paper or a printed letter template.
  2. Ask students to write a letter to themselves that includes:
    • A description of who they are today
    • What they’re proud of or learning to be proud of
    • Hopes and goals for the year (big or small)
    • Words of encouragement for when things get hard
    • Anything they want to remember about this moment in time
  3. Emphasize honesty and self-compassion. This is for them, not anyone else.
  4. Once done, they’ll seal it in an envelope, write their name on the front, and give it to you. (You’ll return it at the end of the year)

Teacher/Mentor Prompting Questions (if students need help getting started):

  • What’s one thing you’re really hoping for this year?
  • What’s something you want to leave behind?
  • What helps you feel strong when things get tough?
  • Where do you hope to see yourself by the end of the year?

Closing - 5 mins

Closing Huddle:

  • End by collectively performing your exit ritual! 
  • Remind students of the next session!