They come running to the reception area with books, games, sketch pads, and friends. “Is it our day today?” they ask Mrs. Howard. Big smiles spread across the students’ faces as they scurry to different learning pods set up across the Learning Commons.

To say this space is a hit would be an understatement.  It has become the hub of activity for our middle school students.

We know many of our community members have not had the opportunity to see this amazing space, but, as a teacher, and as one of the Learning Commons Coordinators, the atmosphere feels like a school version of a favourite coffee shop, filled with connoisseurs of learning.

So let me share with you some of the reasons our middle school students love the Learning Commons:

Grade 5’s LOVE:

  • that they can play Jenga during their break times.
  • the stage.
  • the chapels we can host in this space.
  • that they can go there during their breaks to draw.
  • that they have a place where they can be creative with their friends.
  • that it is a place where I can learn AND be social.
  • there is a Café where we can buy things.
  • there is so much space to learn.
  • the fancy lights.

Grade 6’s LOVE:

  • that they are the first OFFICIAL Presentation of Learning to take place in this space. This week they presented their Fractured Fairy Tales and parents were invited to be their AUDIENCE.
  • it is quiet in there but I can still easily talk with my friends when we play games and respect others who are working.
  • that it is a relaxing space.
  • the sunlight that shines in on us.
  • the ‘sign on the wall.’ It is our mission statement and reminds us of our purpose.
  • how we can switch it from comfortable seating to chapel seating.
  • the donuts and hot chocolate.
  • Italian sodas and all the flavours we can try.

Grade 7’s LOVE:

  • the layout and the chairs; it is open and feels welcoming.
  • that it feels unusually comfortable for a school.
  • the big windows.
  • the window seats
  • that the Learning Commons was open to all students to watch the Olympics during their break and lunch.
  • how there is often soft music playing in the background.
  • that “I can help younger students and play cards with them.”
  • that my friends and peers work at the Café.
  • Mr. and Mrs. Kowalchuk: our Volunteer Café Coordinators.

Grade 8’s LOVE:

  • the design—it doesn’t feel like a school.
  • that it is a great space for us to play “Apples to Apples” at lunch.
  • It provides a space for the sound team to practice their skills and to practice and learn how to use technology.
  • that I can attend chapel at school and church on Sunday in the same space.
  • it’s a great place for our Worship Team to lead others in worship.
  • it makes us feel sophisticated.
  • it has brought a lot of community.
  • the library is open and easy to access; it is welcoming.
  • the big windows and being able to see God’s creation outside.
  • Apple fritters and nachos and cheese from the Cafe.
  • comfortable couches
  • it feels peaceful.

Watching students utilize this space is a joy. And this is just the beginning. As we continue using the Learning Commons, we will look forward to discovering more unique ways for our students and community to use this amazing space in the future to shape God’s world!