A secondary school example of and SEL focused inquiry:
Inquiry Question: How are teachers addressing the social emotional needs, the "shadow pandemic" for their students, as Covid lingers? What activities are occurring at McMath to allow students an outlet to connect with each other safely, build coping strategies, access resiliency? How can we share these innovations with each other? How can we expand our SEL and wellness initiatives into the culture and curricula of school?
WHAT ACTIONS OUR SCHOOL IS TAKING: Grant Team: Met with C. Easton in fall to address different grade activities. English 12: Bringing in SEL & Metacognition unit into curriculum. At peak stress times, doing some wellness activities. (Self awareness/management) School Wide Conference Days: SEL speakers Teacher Wellness: Counsellor led weekly wellness challenges over a month for staff (self manage.) Lunch & Learn: Dec. workshop on the wellness aspects of crocheting & other crafts (self manage.) Pride Club: Winter social for 2SLGBTQIA+ & diverse graphic novels added to library& 2SLGBTQIA+ posters from SJ12 for hallways (social awareness) Restorative Justice: collab workshop for staff Continued social media posts: #mcmathcares
A QUESTION THAT IS ON OUR MINDS: How do we work smarter (not harder) to incorporate SEL teachings in class / school activities in the context of the pandemic & burnout.
NEXT STEPS: Getting our team to meet before Spring Break to map out the remainder of the year. We would love to invite Connie Easton to join us again.