The Second Step program-“Skills of Social and Academic Success” for Kindergarten through Grade 5 is a universal, classroom-based program designed to increase students’ school success and decrease problem behaviors by promoting social-emotional competence and self-regulation.  It teaches skills that strengthen students’ ability to learn, have empathy, manage emotions and solve problems.  The program targets key risk and protective factors linked to a range or problem behaviors.  Equipping students with Second Step skills has been our priority at Lenski.  This helps is create a safer, more respectful learning environment that promotes success for all. 

Students learn problem solving steps including:

• Say the problem – without blame
• Think of solutions – safe and respectful
• Explore consequences – what could happen if….
• Pick the best solution – make your plan

In addition, students learn calming strategies:

• Stop – use your signal
• Name  your feeling
• Calm down:  breath, count and use positive self- talk

The Second Step program teaches students the skills they need to be successful in school.  With each unit, students improve their ability to learn, have empathy, manage emotions and solve problems. Socially and emotionally competent students feel more connected to school and to their peers, thus creating a healthy and respectful school climate for all. 

We are excited to have Second Step incorporated as the district supported anti-bullying curriculum with Lenski classroom teachers and Sabine Baez to present this program.