OBJECTIVE:

Create a space where students feel welcomed, emotionally safe, and connected to their cohort through shared experiences and reflection.

REQUIRED PREP:

Teacher: – 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 (5 mins):

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: Connecting Through Stories (15 mins)

Mentors: Facilitate a partner or small group activity called “Two Truths and a Root.”

  • Students share:
    • Two things that are true about them (fun facts or personality traits)
    • One thing that “grounds” them a person, place, or memory that helps them feel like themselves

Debrief Together:

Ask:

  • What surprised you or made you smile in this activity?
  • How did it feel to name something that grounds you?
  • What’s something you learned about someone else today?

Activity 2: This year will be...

Teacher:  Guide the group in co-creating a shared agreement for how they want to treat one another in this space.

  • Begin by asking:
    • What does respect look like in a space like this?
    • What helps you feel safe being yourself in a group?
    • What behaviors build trust?

  • Record student responses on chart paper or the board.
  • Collaboratively name 4–5 shared commitments
  • Optionally, have everyone sign or initial the agreement as a symbol of group buy-in.

Closing Huddle

  1. End by collectively performing your exit ritual! 
  2. Remind students of the next session!