Focus: Understanding differences and identifying the characteristics of healthy and unhealthy relationships and friendships

Students are learning about respect, recognizing kind and unkind behaviors, and demonstrating empathy. They are also exploring the qualities of a good friend and how appreciating differences fosters positive connections. The lessons emphasize how kindness, as a universal language, can make everyone feel valued and accepted, regardless of where they come from.

Focus: Bullying and cyber-bullying prevention

Student will learn to create positive and supportive relationships with students. PreK-2nd grade will learn what it means to keep a safe body and respect personal space. Additionally, 3rd-5th grade will identify the differences among mean, rude, and bullying behaviors as well as practice fostering supportive relationships by creating positive statements about classmates.

Drug Education Prevention Month

During October, we emphasize the importance of making healthy choices and understanding the risks of harmful substances, with lessons tailored to each grade level:

• PreK - 2nd Grade: Students will learn that certain substances, like medicines and vitamins, can be harmful if not used correctly. They’ll understand the importance of never taking medicine or vitamins without an adult's help and staying away from dangerous drugs. I also teach them to talk to a trusted adult whenever they have questions or concerns about substances they may come across.

• 3rd Grade: Lessons will focus on how drugs can harm the brain and body. Students will explore how drug use can negatively affect not only their health but also other areas of their life, like school and relationships.

• 4th - 5th Grade: These lessons highlight the long-term benefits of staying drug-free, emphasizing the value of building resilience. Students will learn what it means to bounce back from challenges and make positive, healthy choices for their future.

Focus: Whole Body Wellness

During the month of September, Ms. Kneedler has been using her guidance lessons with 1st-5th graders to focus on whole body wellness (physical, social, mental, and emotional). As part of their weekly lessons, students learned stretches to promote both physical and mental health. Our 1st-2nd Grade classes created whole class wheels of wellness, while our 3rd-5th graders created individual wellness wheels.

Our Pre-K and Kinder classes learned about following their hearts by do things they enjoy with their friends and family. They drew about what makes them feel happy and proud on the inside.