Student support resources
Navigating Brave Conversations
In a recent community address, Dr. Aaron Spence shared that we must champion equity in our every decision and action. He shared that we can and must be models of respect and kindness for our students and provide a meaningful and inclusive educational experience for every single child in our schools. As we look ahead and consider our support for students, staff have expressed the desire to be thoughtful about the conversations in which they will engage and the various strong
or confused feelings students may have. Social emotional learning cannot be addressed without acknowledging the climate in which we live and oppressive incidents which have occurred in our country. Facing History and Ourselves shares 6 strategies for guiding conversations about George Floyd's death and the events that surround it. Consider how you may reflect on these points with your staff as you look ahead to next school year.
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Start with yourself
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Prepare for Teaching
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Create Space for Student Reflection
4. Go Deeper: Learn about the History of Police Violence toward Black Americans
5. Go Deeper: Reflect on Protests Today
6. Raise Students' Voices
Transforming Education shares the following resources for promoting and practicing SEL during online learning:
Get moving with Wide Open School!
Read aloud discussion questions shared by Move this World which engage students in reflection and are anchored to the 5 SEL competencies.
Ways to practice brain breaks at home with Pure Edge videos!
Family Support Resources
Sesame Street Town Hall
On June 6, Sesame Street teamed up with CNN to address one of the most important topics children should be aware of—racism. The two media forces joined hands to host Coming Together: Standing Up to Racism, a special 60-minute town hall for kids on the matter of race.
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During the show, beloved Sesame Street characters talk to their young viewers about "racism, the recent nationwide protests, embracing diversity, and being more empathetic and understanding.” The town was moderated by Big Bird, Van Jones, and Erica Hill and they were joined by Elmo, Abby Cadabby, and Rosita, who—along with a few other experts—answered questions submitted by families.
Watch the entire Coming Together: Standing Up to Racism town hall here!
Self-Care During COVID-19
Trails to Wellness is an organization that gathers resources for school professionals and mental health care providers related to student support.
“Today, more students, families, and school staff than ever before are experiencing increased levels of stress, anxiety, and isolation, and will need mental health support.”
Here is a resource that they share (with hyperlinked sources) which details a menu of strategies for self-care during Covid-19.
VB Public Library
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Virginia Beach Public Libraries are offering resources and activities for all students that extend into the summer months. Check out the resource for opportunities to share with families!
#Tallword Tuesday
Kyle Dooley, Cooke ES Kindergarten teacher, engages young learners in social-emotional learning through creative platforms such as Flipgrid.
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Check out this video which reflects on their most recent #TallwordTuesday shared with students - JUSTICE.
Diverse Read Alouds
Ms. McGuire-Day and Ms. Cofield, educators at Lynnhaven Elementary School, created a virtual library of diverse read alouds that represent their school community.
