Oftentimes we think of the physical setting of the space, the “homey” qualities of the classroom. It could be copies of great art adorning the walls or the careful reproductions drawn by students. Atmosphere could include the maps and nature studies on the walls, the classic books on the shelves, the wise words of authors we have read.

It could refer to the sense of order that reigns—a place for everything, and everything in its place. All of these aspects work together to provide a beautiful, inspiring ambiance for the class.

Yet atmosphere is more than the mere environment in which the learning takes place.

• It is the sense of joy and engagement experienced by teachers and students alike.
• Atmosphere is the shared community as students read and discuss a text together.
• It comes in the calm, peaceful work time as students write a narration or work on a map or sketch.
• Atmosphere is also shown in the struggle as a class works through difficulty to tackle and solve a tough problem.
• It is the sense that “it is good to be me here with you doing this.”

How do we achieve such an atmosphere?

Atmosphere stems from our values and our relationships. The ideas that we study and consider and promote come out in our interactions and our lives. As we learn and do life together, we each contribute to the atmosphere and encourage certain values and habits in each other.

Persevering through difficulty and taking personal responsibility.
Showing kindness to our classmates and working through conflict.
Finding ways to serve those around us and becoming more like Christ.

These are values we hold and habits we practice as a school.

Beauty. Order. Joy. Peace. Quality work. And relationships.

All of these values contribute to the unique atmosphere we have at Calvary Schools of Holland.