If you could set one goal for your classroom this week, what would it be?
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| This week’s newsletter is all about setting the tone for Term 2 with a simple idea that can shift classroom culture, a tiny country with a fascinating global story, and a Fun Finish that’s equal parts inspiring and slightly exhausting to think about. |
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 Pay It Forward Day: Small acts, big ripples
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Do you remember the last time a small act of kindness completely turned your day around?
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| Tuesday, April 28, is Pay It Forward Day… a global movement that started right here in Australia, encouraging people to do something kind for someone else and instead of being paid back, that person simply pays it forward. |
| It’s one of those beautifully simple ideas that works just as well in a classroom as it does in the real world. And in that first couple of weeks back rhythm, when routines are resetting, and energy can wobble, it’s a powerful way to build connection, empathy, and a sense of belonging. |
It doesn’t need to be big.
A shared goal. A small challenge. A moment of noticing. |
| Students begin to look for kindness. To create it. To recognise the impact they have on others. |
- Set up a “Secret Kindness Agent” challenge
- Start a kindness chain across the room
- Or ask students to notice and share acts of kindness they see
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| Because sometimes, the smallest actions are the ones that stick. |
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Squiz the World — Vatican City
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| Join us on Tuesday for this week’s Squiz the World. We’re heading to Vatican City, the smallest country on Earth, tucked right in the middle of Rome. This tiny nation is home to the Catholic Church, led by the Pope, and welcomes millions of visitors each year to places like St Peter’s Basilica. |
| In this episode, we explore how a country smaller than many school campuses became one of the most influential places in the world, from its ancient history to its modern-day role. |
| Perfect for a quick Geography hit, a bit of History, or just a fascinating trip somewhere new – no passport required. |
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Fun Finish: Going the extra… 100 miles
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| There’s going the extra mile… and then there’s going 100 of them. |
| A teacher in the US has done exactly that, running 100 miles (about 160 kilometres) to raise money for her students, in a fundraising effort that’s equal parts inspiring and slightly exhausting to even imagine. |
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| For the past 10 years, Kate Fletcher has been lacing up for a cause — raising more than $100,000 to support student scholarships. (Photo – Louisa County Public Schools) |
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| The story, shared by ABC News, is a brilliant reminder of the dedication teachers bring to their communities, often in ways that go far beyond the classroom. |
| Safe to say… my feet hurt just thinking about it. |
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Know a teacher who’d love this? Pass it on.
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| We love hearing from you! Reply to this email with any feedback, suggestions, or funny teaching stories, or hit us up at [email protected]. |
Now get out there, and have a most excellent day!
Over and out. |
| – Christie Kijurina, Squiz Kids Educator |
