Social-Emotional Learning

List of 3 items.

• Preschool (2-5 year olds)

  Our Preschool Division implemented Second Step Early Learning as their Social-Emotional Curriculum. This program helps our littlest learners harness their energy and potential by teaching them to listen, pay attention, manage their behavior, and get along with others. 
  
  When students enter kindergarten with the skills of self-regulation and social-emotional skills taught, they're set up for success. This program's full scope and sequence can be found using this link. 

• Lower School (Grades K-5)

  Our Lower School division uses the Second Step Elementary Program, which provides four full units of weekly, age-appropriate lessons for each grade level. Our curriculum covers the following units: Growth Mindset and Goal Setting, Emotional Management, Empathy and kindness, and Problem-Solving. 
  
  These units teach students how to develop executive function skills, have healthy peer and adult relationships, have a growth mindset and goal-setting skills, develop empathy for others, and use their problem-solving skills.

• Middle-Upper School (Grades 6-12)

  Our middle-upper school has adopted an advisory program. 

  Advisory programs play a crucial role in fostering social-emotional health in schools. Here are a few reasons why they are so important:

  1. Personalized Support: Advisory programs provide a dedicated space where students can build strong, trusting relationships with a teacher or mentor. This personalized guidance helps students feel seen, heard, and supported, which is essential for their emotional well-being.
  2. Social Skills Development: Through regular advisory sessions, students engage in conversations and activities that promote teamwork, empathy, communication, and conflict resolution. These interactions help them develop the social skills needed to build positive relationships both in and out of school.
  3. Emotional Intelligence: Advisory programs often focus on developing emotional intelligence by teaching students how to recognize and manage their emotions, understand others' perspectives, and handle stress in a healthy way. These skills contribute to their overall emotional resilience.
  4. Safe Space for Reflection: Students need a place where they can process their experiences, both academic and personal. Advisory groups provide a safe and supportive environment for students to reflect on challenges, celebrate successes, and set personal and academic goals.
  5. Sense of Belonging: By creating a smaller community within the larger school, advisory programs foster a sense of belonging. Students feel more connected to their peers and the school, which can reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety, leading to a more positive school experience.
  6. Early Intervention: Advisory programs also allow advisors to notice early signs of emotional or social struggles. This enables schools to provide timely intervention and support, preventing small issues from escalating into larger problems.