The GVA Way
At GVA, we believe:
That every classroom should be a needs-fulfilling environment where relationships are prioritized.
Why It Matters
Children don't only bring pencils and backpacks to school with them. They also bring fundamental human needs. When these needs are honored in the classroom, students are more likely to feel safe, loved, joyful, empowered, and capable of learning at high levels.
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Relationships are the bridge between needs and learning. A student can't experience safety, belonging, joy, freedom, or empowerment without trusting connections with teachers and peers. At GVA, we prioritize human connection because we know students learn best when they feel cared for.
What We Prioritize in Every Classroom
Survival: Feeling Safe and Secure
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Predictable routines and clear expectations
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Safe physical and emotional spaces
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Support systems when students feel worried or overwhelmed
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"The best thing about school is being able to feel safe and having my friends by my side . . ." (GVA Student, Oct. '25 Pulse Check)
Love & Belonging: Feeling Connected
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Morning Greetings, Brain Smart Starts, Family Meetings, meaningful classroom jobs
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Class activities that include and honor every voice
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Opportunities to work together as a class family
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"The best thing about being in school for me individually is getting to learn and grow with my friends and getting to experience the new school year with them." (GVA Student, Oct. '25 Pulse Check)
Fun: Feeling Joyful and Engaged
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Active, hands-on learning experiences
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Laughter, games, and celebrations woven into school life
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Creative lessons that make learning memorable
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"Every day is a fun day at GVA because all my friends and teachers are making it a fun day at school." (GVA Student, Oct. '25 Pulse Check)
Freedom: Having Choice and Voice
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Opportunities for students to make meaningful choices in learning
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Encouragement to express ideas, opinions, and creativity
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Respect for individuality and learning styles
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"The best thing about being at school is having options to be partners with friends and more talk time with brain breaks." (GVA Student, Oct. '25 Pulse Check)
Power: Feeling Capable and Accomplished
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Clear goals and feedback that help students see progress
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Recognition of effort, improvement, and success
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Opportunities for leadership, responsibility, and contribution
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"The best thing about being at school within the last week is that I get to further my knowledge and grow my brain power by learning about new and fun stuff." (GVA Student, Oct. '25 Pulse Check)
