Open Circle has a strong emphasis on cultivating a climate to prevent bullying
behavior, as well as teaching children the tools necessary to advocate
for both themselves and others.Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is a process for helping students
develop the knowledge, understandings and skills that support positive
behavior and constructive social relationships. SEL is an approach that
teaches students to recognize, regulate and express the social and
emotional aspects of their lives so they can operate successfully in the
world and manage life tasks. According to research, social and emotional learning increases self
esteem and well being and, at the same time, works to prevent negative
behaviors such as violence, truancy, and bullying. Research has shown us
that children who feel safe and are able to work with others in a
classroom learn more effectively, have a sense of responsibility, and
care about others.
Our goal is for all students to feel cared about, welcomed and valued
by all members of our elementary school community. Furthermore, in
recent years we have learned that the social competency of children is
strongly tied to both social and academic success and the development of
higher-level thinking skills.
I was out at recces today and I was pleased to see some model Hood School students in action. I was able to discuss Open Circle with a student and asked her what she learns in Open Circle. Samantha keenly noted "in Open Circle we get to know each other better and understand each other. We learn what we have in common so we can have good conversations and make new friends. It is nice to get to know everyone."
Here is a link to an article that I wrote a few years ago!
http://reading-northreading.patch.com/articles/what-is-open-circle-and-social-emotional-learning
No comments:
Post a Comment