school assembly

A gathering of all students and staff at a school for a specific informational, educational, or motivational purpose. Often held in a gymnasium, auditorium, cafeteria, or "multi-use" room.

Subjects of school assemblies include:

• cultural or historical awareness
• fundraising drive kickoffs
• performing arts*
• public safety (earthquake, fire, tornado procedures)
• motivating school spirit
• science demonstrations
• social issues, such as: drug prevention, disability awareness, AIDS awareness, violence prevention

The performer to audience ratio in this setting is not optimal for learning. However, the specialized knowledge of a guest speaker or performer is often sought out to inspire and/or motivate students in a particular subject area. Savvy teachers refer back to the assembly in the classroom to enhance their curriculum.

And sometimes the staff just wants someone else to babysit their students.

* Often a major source of income for performing artists. Musicians, puppeteers, storytellers, magicians, dancers, and theatre artists can find regular work touring to schools, if there is local support available (i.e., funding from the school, PTA, the state, local businesses).