Welcome!  I’m so excited to be teaching SEL and Mindfulness this year to all of our students.  

What is it?  

Social Emotional Learning, SEL involves the process through which children acquire and apply the knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. NJ  DOE website on Social and Emotional Learning 

Mindfulness is paying attention to what is happening, here and now, with kindness and curiosity, so we can choose our behavior.  Amy Saltzman in a Still Quiet Place 

Why is it important?

Social Emotional Learning provides a foundation for safe and positive learning and enhances students’ ability to succeed in school, careers and life.

Mindfulness helps students learn skills to help focus, pay attention, regulate emotions and develop empathy.

How will it be taught?

SEL and Mindfulness is a Special this year.  We use the Second Step curriculum with its focus on Skills for Learning, Empathy, and Emotion Management. We continue with the Project Team character education curriculum and its focus on Helping Others, Positive Change, Anti-Bullying, Problem Solving, Resiliency, and Leadership.  When appropriate, Mindfulness activities will be introduced.