Finding our stories. Listening to one another. Growing together.

Our first graders are exploring the power of small moment stories—using pictures, words, and sequencing strategies to share personal experiences of connection and belonging.

As part of their International Baccalaureate unit of inquiry, “Who We Are,” students are reflecting on their own experiences and considering how those experiences shape the ways they connect with others. Through writing and sharing, they are learning to listen deeply, value one another’s voices, and recognize the meaning in each person’s story.

This work also strengthens foundational literacy skills, including phonics, decoding, and organizing ideas. Just as importantly, it creates space for students to practice living out the values at the heart of our community—being caring, principled, and open-minded, and recognizing that every person has a unique voice and contribution.

At Newtown Friends, we believe learning happens not only through what we discover, but also through how we listen, reflect, and grow together. Our first graders are learning that even the smallest moments can hold something worth noticing—and worth sharing.