Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
Innovative Social-Emotional Practices at PS 304 Early Childhood Lab School
Our School Taglines:
“Every Learner, Every Day” & “Leaders in Their Learning”
Morning Leadership Circles in PK - 2
- Daily classroom check-ins where students share goals, reflect on emotions and celebrate progress as leaders in their learning journey.
- Use mood meters and goal-setting tools to foster accountability and emotional awareness.
Student-Led SEL Conferences
- Students host their own conferences with teachers and parents to discuss personal growth, SEL goals, and learning milestones.
- Includes showcasing projects or tools that demonstrate emotional intelligence and leadership skills.
Art Therapy led by D. Estrella, Guidance Counselor
- A designated space for mindfulness and problem-solving activities that encourage students to regulate emotions and practice collaborative leadership.
- Activities include yoga, journaling, peer mediation, and creative expression.
Leadership Ambassadors Program (Lunch Monitor Safety Squad)
- A peer mentoring system where older students are trained to support younger students in navigating emotions, resolving conflicts, and fostering inclusivity at lunch.
- Rotating leadership roles to ensure “every learner, every day” has the opportunity to lead.
Leadership in Action SEL Projects
- Students design and implement community-based projects that address real-world challenges, emphasizing teamwork, resilience, and social responsibility.
Emotion Stations in Classrooms
- Interactive stations equipped with tools like “calm jars,” stress balls, and reflection cards, empowering students to regulate emotions independently.
Feelings as Leaders Framework
- SEL lessons integrated into academics using stories and activities that highlight how emotions guide decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership. This can be seen in our PBIS RISE Matrix
Family SEL Workshops
- Monthly sessions for families to learn SEL strategies that align with school practices, promoting a consistent home-school connection.
Student Voice Assemblies (Leaders in Learning)
- Periodic gatherings led by students, featuring peer presentations on SEL topics, storytelling, or solutions to school challenges.
Equity & Empathy Lunch Tables (Choice Seating)
- Organized by student leaders, these tables foster inclusive conversations among diverse groups, encouraging understanding and friendship.
Weekly Leadership Reflections (Kid Committee)
- Dedicated time for students to meet with school leadershipto plan and determine next steps.
These practices emphasize the development of self-awareness, empathy, and leadership in alignment with the school’s mission to support “every learner, every day” and to cultivate “leaders in their learning.”