A First Day Like No Other: Human First in Kyiv

September 1, Kyiv

As we open our doors for a new school year. I’m thinking about every student, parent, and educator walking in with mixed emotions—and with a weight many don’t name.

In recent training we heard a hard number: some estimates suggest up to 44% of children in Ukraine are showing trauma-related symptoms. That isn’t a slide; it’s the invisible backpack many students carry. It changes how we start.

Our priority is simple: learning grows from well-being. No child can thrive academically unless they first feel safe, seen, and supported.

This is why the JVDT approach matters. It’s a human practice, not a set of tricks—rooted in social-emotional learning and clear routines.

What we’re prioritizing

1) Culture of Care

Trust, empathy, and respect—so students can take emotional and intellectual risks without fear.

2) Structured Safety

Predictable openings and closings; clear signals; calm spaces. Routines steady the room.

3) Connecting with Context

We acknowledge where we live and learn. Students get voice and choice to process through art, writing, discussion, and collaborative projects.

What this can look like in class (concrete moves)

• 60-second arrive & breathe. One quiet minute before we begin.

• Opt-in check-in (1–5). “How’s your energy?” No explanations required.

• Two-sentence goal. “This week I want to… / One thing that will help is…”

• Calm zone & quiet signals: We can set up a neutral reset seat and one simple hand-signal system, practice both on day one, and normalize using them—no shame, no fuss.

• Exit ticket stem. “Today I felt ___ when ___; next class I need ___.”

How the JVDT Keys guide us

• Association: begin from what students already know and feel.

• Analysis: break tasks into small, doable steps.

• Root: teach essentials first; reduce cognitive load.

• Context: name time, place, audience, and purpose so learning matters beyond the test.

Human first, tools second. That’s the line we’ll hold as we welcome students back. If we do this well, knowledge will stick and skills will serve—not just this term, but in life.

Love. Respect. Happiness. That’s our classroom compass. These lead us to a calm start, clear routines, and the courage to say, “You’re safe here.”