Mineola schools are making significant strides in enhancing social-emotional learning (SEL) practices, particularly for neurodiverse students. During a recent meeting, educators highlighted the expansion of "buddy classes," which pair special education classes with general education classes to foster social interaction and community building among students.

This year, the buddy classes have been further developed, allowing students to engage in shared activities such as community circles and recess. These initiatives aim to create a more inclusive environment where students can learn from one another and build meaningful relationships.

In addition to buddy classes, the school has revamped its community circle curriculum for fourth graders, ensuring that students do not repeat the same content as they progress through grades. This curriculum is designed to enhance social skills and emotional understanding, which are critical components of the SEL framework.

The establishment of the "brave committee," consisting of one student from each homeroom, has also gained momentum. This year, the committee received an overwhelming number of applications, reflecting students' enthusiasm for participating in school governance and community initiatives. The committee will plan special "brave days," further empowering students to take an active role in their school environment.

Educators are utilizing data from the SEL web to identify students' needs and tailor support strategies effectively. Initial assessments have shown that students are developing strengths in social problem-solving and emotion recognition, indicating the positive impact of these SEL initiatives. Furthermore, the insight survey revealed that a majority of students feel they have at least one trusted adult in the school, contributing to a sense of safety and belonging.

As the school year progresses, the focus on tiered behavior support strategies, including lunch bunches and community circles, will continue to play a vital role in fostering a supportive learning environment. The commitment to refining SEL practices underscores the school’s dedication to nurturing the emotional and social well-being of all students, paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive educational experience.