EMPOWERING ENVIRONMENT
Students are empowered to feel confident and supported through:
- Clear communication and transparency around expectations and community norms
- Well-defined processes for conflict resolution
- A collaborative approach to decision-making involving both students and adults
- Opportunities for authentic leadership
This fosters a sense of partnership and mutual respect within the school community.
RESTORATIVE APPROACH TO DISCIPLINE
Rather than punitive measures, the school adopts a restorative approach to discipline, focusing on:
- Helping students learn from mistakes
- Guiding the understanding of how actions impact others
- Developing skills for taking accountability and repairing harm caused
Conscious Discipline practices are employed to resolve issues while strengthening community bonds through trust and respect.
Encouraging Individual Growth
NURTURING PERSONAL INTERESTS
Millennium provides an environment where students can:
- Explore individual passions and interests
- Inquire, lead, and innovate
- Step into authentic leadership roles
- Start new clubs
- Engage in various extracurricular activities
HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT
This approach ensures each student can find and follow their unique path, contributing to a vibrant, diverse, and dynamic school community.
LONG-TERM COMMITMENT
We maintain an unwavering commitment to these principles, believing they are essential for fostering a healthy, inclusive, and progressive educational environment where every student can thrive.
ATLANTIS ROOM
As a sanctuary for students seeking tranquility and focus, the Atlantis Room offers a peaceful environment where students can voluntarily visit to regain balance and readiness for effective participation in classroom and communal activities.
GUIDED SUPPORT
Upon entering, a guide greets students and assists them in selecting an activity to facilitate recentering. Options include journaling, resting, one-on-one discussions with an adult, drawing, playing guitar, coloring, exercising, or reading. This variety ensures that every student can find a method that resonates with them, fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation.
STUDENT-LED DESIGN
The Atlantis Room’s design in the new building was spearheaded by a dedicated group of 6th graders during their spring intersession journey. These students meticulously crafted every aspect of the room, from the soothing color palette and strategic layout to the selection of furniture. This involvement underscores the importance placed on empowering students to shape their environment. The student-led design process enhances their connection to the space and to each other, creating a room that is not only functional but also a true reflection of student agency and creativity.
MORNING MEETING
Each school day begins with our cherished Morning Meeting, a ritual that sets the tone for a day filled with learning and connection.
Arrival & Gathering
Students arrive and individually line up to enter the gathering area. They find their place in the collective circle on student-made Zafus—a special touch that enhances the sense of calm and mindfulness. A guide warmly greets each student at the door, while other adults and student volunteers often play music to welcome everyone into the space.
Mindfulness Practice
The meeting starts with a mindfulness practice, led alternately by students or Guides. This practice grounds everyone in a shared sense of presence and focus.
Announcements & Appreciations
Following the mindfulness session, the floor opens to “Announcements and Appreciations.” This dedicated time fosters authentic connections and ensures all voices are heard. Students and Guides share highlights, set personal intentions for the day, and celebrate each other’s achievements.
Community Building
Morning Meeting is more than just a start to the day; it is a vital part of the community’s rhythm. It emphasizes mindfulness, respect, and the importance of each voice in shaping the collective journey. This daily gathering reflects the community’s commitment to inclusivity and sets a positive tone for the learning and growth that follows.