The school’s core values, Inclusion, Inquiry and Responsibility, are integrated in all practices at Q300, and are particularly reinforced through the integration of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) in the school. SEL is supported at Q300 in a variety of ways: the Responsive Classroom Approach, the Sanford Harmony Curriculum, and the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports Framework.
Since its inception, the teachers and staff at Q300 are trained in the community building, instructional, and discipline philosophy of Responsive Classroom, an evidence-based approach to teaching that focuses on engaging academics, positive community, effective management, and developmental awareness. Schools that use Responsive Classroom report improved student achievement in reading and math, improved school climate, and higher-quality instruction. It has been described by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) as one of the most “well-designed evidence-based social and emotional learning (SEL) programs”.
Teachers at Q300 also use the Sanford Harmony Curriculum to support and help strengthen communication and understanding among children. The goal of Sanford Harmony is to help foster an inclusive classroom community, so that a proactive approach to student well-being will decrease personality conflicts or issues among students. The curriculum serves as a tool kit for teachers to help support students in their social emotional growth in school. Like Responsive Classroom, studies show that Sanford Harmony fosters stronger school culture and increased academic achievement.
Finally, Q300 uses a Positive Behavioral and Intervention Supports (PBIS) framework that lays out clear expectations for on-culture school behavior that aligns with the core values and the acronym ASPIRE (Accountability, Safety, Participation, Inclusion, Responsibility and Empathy). Students learn what is expected of them throughout the school day, whether in the cafeteria, classroom, hallway etc...These expectations are taught to kids and are just as important as academics, as they help build a culture in which all of our students can thrive.
The attached powerpoint presentation (prepared by Q300 teachers Cristina Baron and Ali Lisberger) contains more specific information about SEL at Q300. Check it out: More info
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