the gratitude project (2023).

Six years ago, during Thanksgiving week, I began assigning what I lovingly call “The Gratitude Project.” Essentially, I forced my students–and myself–to reflect on the Good in our lives in the midst of all of the Bad. And it quickly became one of my favorite activities of the year.

We always kick off the mini-unit by letting Kid President inspire us in class, and at home, we explore several “books” from our interactive Gratitude Library choice board (below.) (Hover over a title to do some light “reading” of your own.)

Every day, we spend a few minutes sharing our takeaways from the various resources we chose to explore the night before. All of this is the primer for the physical part of the project: a community slide deck that houses at least five things for which each of us is thankful this year. The contributions range from lighthearted to heartfelt, but all reflect the diverse mix of Grateful Thinkers in Room 1227.

I play, too, and share my example with the students first (below).

Take a look below to see what these fabulous adolescents shared. (Click on the slide deck to advance through the slides.)

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

4 Comments on “the gratitude project (2023).”

Sue Langlois
November 30, 2023

As always, my absolute favorite things to read all year! I love the way you have fostered a love of learning in these kids, and also that you make them feel safe and valued. Without your love and unwavering support, the gratitude posts would be far less meaningful. I love that these kids are so reflective. Fabulous job (as always) to everyone who participated this year. Thank you for sharing!!!

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- Ms. Beth Hughes
  December 5, 2023
  
  Thanks for preparing these students with all of *your* love and unwavering support at the middle school—and for being our #1 fan! ❤️
  
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JD
November 24, 2023

This is an amazing project for both students (to reflect on) and parents (to read). Gratitude manifests good things in our lives. You are an amazing teacher Ms. Hughes. Your impact on these students who are the next caretakers and decision makers of our planet is unmeasurable.

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- Ms. Beth Hughes
  November 24, 2023
  
  Thank you so much—both for your kind words and for taking time to enjoy these projects! The students are pretty amazing!
  
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