Socioemotional Learning
The Leader in Me Program @ PS19Q
At PS19, we value socioemotional learning and spend a portion of each day working to teach children the social and emotional skills they need to become thriving adults. As part of that work, PS19 uses the "Leader in Me" curriculum. Leader in Me helps students learn how to become self-reliant, take initiative, plan ahead, set and track goals, do their homework, prioritize their time, manage their emotions, be considerate of others, express their viewpoint persuasively, resolve conflicts, find creative solutions, value differences, and live a balanced life. The process helps students develop the skills and self-confidence they need to lead their lives and succeed in school and beyond. See the section below to read about the habits of mind we focus on, and feel free engage your child in conversation about these habits of mind at home.
Habit 1 — Be Proactive
You're in Charge
I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods. I do not blame others for my wrong actions. I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is looking.
Habit 2 — Begin with the End in Mind
Have a Plan
I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school’s mission and vision. I look for ways to be a good citizen.
Habit 3 — Put First Things First
Work First, Then Play
I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.
Habit 4 — Think Win-Win
Everyone Can Win
I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. I make deposits in others’ Emotional Bank Accounts. When conflicts arise, I look for third alternatives.
Habit 5 — Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood
Listen Before You Talk
I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting. I am confident in voicing my ideas. I look people in the eyes when talking.
Habit 6 — Synergize
Together Is Better
I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different than me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people’s ideas to solve problems because I know that by teaming with others we can create better solutions than anyone of us can alone. I am humble.
Habit 7 — Sharpen The Saw
Balance Feels Best
I take care of my body by eating right, exercising and getting sleep. I spend time with family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school. I find meaningful ways to help others.
Morning SEL Meeting
Every teacher at PS19 dedicates the first ten minutes of every day to a morning meeting routine that includes various components of socioemotional learning. This commitment ensures that our students start the day in an environment that is consistent, supportive, and that gives students time to reflect, set intentions for the day, and voice any concerns that they may have.
Weekly and Monthly Shout Outs Competition
Our school supports the development of positive values by awarding students certificates called shout outs when they demonstrate a positive value. This effort stems from the belief that students need positive feedback about their choices, that students care about this feedback, and that that feedback encourages further efforts to demonstrate positive qualities.
Each week, our school tallies the shout outs awarded to each individual class, and announces winning classes for the week over the loudspeaker. Students also receive printed individual certificates on these days. Additionally, the school conducts a lottery in which one student from each grade level wins an additional prize (students must be awarded a shout out to qualify for this lottery).
At the end of each month, classes in each grade-level with the most shout outs receive an extra recess, in celebration of their efforts.