Whole Child
Throughout the year, three signature practices will propel relationship-building: Relationships are important for students, families, and educators as part of our Whole Child approach. Below is information about our different structures and approach for supporting the Whole Child.
For all students-
This year in particular, we strive to create a feeling of belonging for students and opportunities to build relationships with others in this remote environment. Throughout the year, three signature practices will propel relationship-building:
- Warm greetings: every student deserves to be warmly welcomed be it in a virtual space, in a physical classroom, on a bus or in the front office.
- Emotion Check: this strategy helps to identify our emotion, feel supported, understand the physiological responses associated with it and learn how to intentionally move to a desired emotional state.
- Building Relationships: as humans, we all have a need to belong. We create connections through several practices including circles where all students practice communication, respect for others, mindful listening, empathy and share appreciations and feelings of acceptance or loneliness.
Additionally, our elementary students will participate in Social Emotional Learning (SEL) lessons with our adopted SEL curriculum that focuses on self-awareness, social awareness, self-management, relationship building and responsible decision-making. Secondary students will have Advisory time built into their day to dive into SEL skills.
For some students- Tacoma has incredibly talented and caring school counselors who will support students who are struggling with grief, trauma, anxiety or depression.
For a few students- Sometimes we have more serious mental health needs. Your school counselor will help connect you with a local mental health agency. During the pandemic, these clinicians are offering support remotely through Telehealth.
Social-Emotional Lessons
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