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Social and Emotional Learning

Emotions are fundamental to understanding the human experience and are essential for maintaining healthy relationships and a sense of community. At Alta Vista School (AVS), emotions are seen as drivers of curiosity, creativity, and decision-making—all of which promote optimal learning. Young learners practice recognizing, understanding, labeling, and expressing emotions with care and concern. By developing emotional intelligence (EQ) and emotional literacy, students are better equipped to build positive relationships, make thoughtful choices, and act responsibly.

Students at AVS are encouraged to follow three guiding principles, known as the "three be's": be respectful, be kind, and be proud. These core behaviors are regularly reinforced in fun and engaging ways during the school’s weekly Friday Morning Meetings, which focus on social and emotional learning. The AVS community fosters EQ development through a common language (like the "three be's"), shared tools (such as mindfulness), and consistent modeling (for example, restorative justice). These principles are demonstrated in weekly morning meetings, classroom discussions, and during conflict resolution exercises at recess. When conflicts arise at recess, for example, students learn to take the "peace path" approach to restoring their relationship by using I-statements to express feelings and needs, listening without interrupting, and apologizing when necessary.

Overall, students develop the following key social and emotional skills:

  • Emotional literacy: Learning coping strategies like identifying emotions, managing frustrations, and practicing positive communication.
  • Empathy and compassion: Taking the perspective of others.
  • Personal responsibility: Using I-statements and being mindful of one’s actions.
  • Collaboration: Cooperating during work and play, and striving to resolve conflicts together.

By equipping students with these skills, AVS supports the realization of its vision to create a rigorous, safe, and innovative learning environment.