The five core competencies of social emotional learning are self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Both programs implemented in our elementary schools provide curriculum aligned to these core competencies. Each elementary site chose the program that best meet the needs of the school. Approximately half of our elementary schools are implementing Second Step and half are implementing Caring School Community.

Research shows improved social emotional skills lead to increased academic achievement, improved behavior, lower dropout rates, among many other benefits. A deliberate focus on the development of social and emotional skills is critical in the process of preparing students with future ready skills (complex problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, people management, coordinating with others, emotional intelligence, active listening, service orientation, negotiation and cognitive flexibility). We strive to design learning spaces for students to collaborate, peer coach, and peer teach while engaging in rigorous, standards-based tasks—a combination that leads to true social, emotional, and cognitive learning (SECL). Student-led academic teaming elevates core instruction to a level of rigor far beyond that of outdated classrooms and familiar grouping strategies.

Second Step

Second Step is a research-based curriculum helping children learn to understand and manage emotions, set goals, show empathy for others, establish positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Students gain the skills they need to become caring, confident, and capable learners and problem-solvers.

Caring School Community

Caring School Community promotes positive behavior through direct teaching of responsibility, empathy, and cooperation.  A culture of kindness and respect are cultivated, in a safe and supportive environment where students feel heard, known, and cared for.