Teachers' Implementation of Morning Meetings in a Pennsylvania Elementary Classroom Environment

There has been an increase in the mental health concerns of students of all ages over the past several years. Specifically, since COVID-19, the social and emotional needs of students at the elementary school level have become drastically more evident. This qualitative action research study aimed to understand teachers' implementation of Morning Meetings in public elementary classrooms in Pennsylvania and the revisions they make to overcome barriers. The first research question aimed to investigate how teachers implemented the four components of the structure of Morning Meeting. Findings revealed that the participants believed they followed the fundamental structure of Morning Meetings: greeting, sharing, group activity, and morning message with fidelity. Three concerns were identified during implementation including time constraints, student engagement, and transfer of skills. The second research question sought to explore what revisions teachers made while implementing Morning Meetings. Findings identified three specific areas of concern regarding Morning Meetings: time constraints, student engagement, and student transfer of skills. As a result, the participants adjusted the processes and activities during Morning Meetings to enable learners to acquire all the necessary skills that would allow them to connect with their peers and teachers. Therefore, the participants understood it was essential to address these challenges to ensure that the Morning Meetings are practical and beneficial for all participants. This qualitative action research was essential to understanding teachers' implementation of daily Morning Meetings in public elementary classrooms in Pennsylvania. The information from this qualitative action research guided teachers, administrators, and schools with structures, processes, and strategies to implement Morning Meetings in their elementary classrooms. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]