OBJECTIVE:

Ensure students feel welcomed and connect to their cohort and the program.

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!

Mentors Opening Huddle (5 mins):

Goal: Conduct the cohort ritual and mood check.

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

  1. Opening Ritual: Conduct your opening ritual! 
  2. Mood Check: Gather the students into a circle (standing or sitting – keep comfort in mind)!

Activity 1: What to expect

Mentors – Facilitate the following activities:

Have the students write their funniest or weirdest story on a small piece of paper. It has to be a true one, no fiction! They should not write their name. Then fold the paper up and drop it into a bowl or other container.

Read every story and group members guess who the writer is. This is a great way to get to know each other and find out new things, even if you’ve worked together for a long time.

Top 5 Relationships

Have students take out a sheet of paper and identify their  top 5 current and most  important relationships they wish to keep after graduation. For each relationship answer the following questions: 

  • Why is this relationship so special?
  • What’s special about the person?
  • How do  you plan to keep the relationship going?

Activity 2: This year will be...

Teacher, share the vision:  People will change, you will change, and circumstances will change. How will you maintain and build relationships after high school?

Tips on how to maintain relationships:

  • Effective Communication: Be a good listener, express yourself clearly, and use “I” statements to express your emotions without blaming others.
  • Empathy: Try to understand and validate others emotions, perspective, and feelings. Show compassion and support. 
  • Respect Boundaries: Understand and respect personal boundaries, openly communicate your boundaries, be mindful of others’ comfort level and needs. 
  • Quality Time: Prioritize the quality of your interactions over quantity, create shared experiences and memories.
  • Be Reliable: If you make plans, stick to them or communicate changes in advance. Show that you can be counted on in both small and significant matters. 
  • Express Gratitude: Regularly express appreciation for the people in your life. Show gratitude and acknowledge the positive aspects of your relationships.
  • Resolve Conflicts Positively: Focus on finding solutions rather than placing blame. Address conflicts promptly and constructively.
  • Forgiveness: Understand that people make mistakes, and forgiveness is crucial for growth. Focus on the positive aspects and the potential for personal and relational improvement. 
  • Self-Care: Take care of your physical and mental well-being. Ensure you have a healthy balance between your personal and social life.
  • Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate each other’s achievements. Share in the joy of accomplishments, big or small. 
  • Adaptability: Be flexible and open to change within the relationship. Life circumstances, priorities, and individuals can evolve; be willing to adapt together.

Closing Huddle

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