Good Vibes Only: A Focus on the Social-Emotional Well-being of Our Students

Spartan Acoustic Jam brings teacher & student musicians together.

      We began the school year promoting the theme, Good Vibes Only, to promote the importance of how positive relationships in the school setting builds a foundation for trust, community, communication, general wellness and  academic success.  During the first three days of school, we put off the syllabus and textbooks and participated in activities to get to know each other better.  
     Some might see this as a bit "unconventional," but here we are in February and I can tell you that the approach to make the social- emotional well being of our students our top priority has made the most positive difference in our school culture.  The theme allowed us to stay focused on an important goal that drove everything we did.  
     Our newly designed Spartan Block has been so successful that we have had teachers and administrators from other district coming to visit to see how they can replicate our model of student voice, choice and passion.  Currently, we are looking to strengthen the services and support we offer through our guidance department as well through a system of life coaches, transition coaches, etc..  Recently, our P.E. department all received official certifications in yoga and mindfulness instruction to share these skills with students and teachers alike.  
     We have developed a course entitled, "Personal Wellness" to give our students a safe place to discuss issues that are relevant to their age groups.  Our newly formed Social Emotional Classrooms help struggling students catch up and/or take a deep a breath.  Our Wellness Committee that consists of students, staff and partnerships with Baystate Medical Center, the East Longmeadow Health Department and the East Longmeadow Police Department, works to provide our students and parents with information on how to develop and maintain healthy mental health habits as well as resources for support.  
     As we move into the second part of the school year, we will continue this focus so that our students feel supported and valued.  ELHS continues to thrive academically (every single student passed the MCAS in ELA and Math this past year!), but we can only continue this wonderful trend if we continue to work on making these special connections with our students. Below are two great articles on our efforts this year for you to enjoy.  

Good Vibes Only News Article

First Three Days News Article