uses language to enable boys to define and express their feelings , grow appreciation for others , and to build empathy . Social and emotional learning will be at the forefront of our teaching , because it guides the daily interactions of our boys and plays a large role in their future success .
Establishing a greater understanding of what specifically the boys now need from us as well as how to provide that to them requires a shift in our mindsets as the adults in our community . Educators often state that instilling a desire to be “ lifelong learners ” is a paramount goal . This tumultuous time has required us as adults to become more active models of the lifelong learning process . No longer can we rely solely on the same lessons or classroom management for us as educators . In addition , the teachers and administrators learn from the wisdom and guidance of our psychologist , Dr . Michael Schwartzman , on how to better hone our practice . These additions to our talented and dedicated team increase the already tremendous dedication of Saint David ’ s School to its boys . Not the boys of years before . The boys of today , the boys of a post-Covid world .
In Dr . Marc Brackett ’ s book , Permission to Feel , he states : “ A gifted child who does not have the permission to feel , along with the vocabulary to express those feelings , and the ability to understand them , won ’ t be able to manage complicated emotions around friendships and academics , limiting his or her potential .” As our young
“ We will ensure that our boys have the intellectual capacity to process new information , the emotional intelligence to understand and regulate their feelings , and the confidence that they are surrounded by a community where they are supported and safe .”
systems that we have used in the past . We must innovate and use the data from not just academic touchpoints but also social-emotional observations to personalize our practices to best suit the needs of the specific group of boys in front of us at any given time . That is quite a feat to expect from teachers who are fully committed to their craft ! That is why , in true Saint David ’ s form , we are not asking our educators to do this important and reflective work as islands . We have been cultivating a team of professionals of varying expertise so that our collaborative work becomes even more geared toward growing us as professional educators who are prepared and supported in our mission .
To continue our work of providing a supportive learning environment for all boys , our learning services department has been expanded in terms of staff and more defined communication processes within our teams . This has allowed us to better differentiate instruction for our learners as well as provide greater support to parents . During the 2021-22 school year , we partnered with Ramapo for Children , who provided professional development to our faculty that focused on strategies and techniques that support continued learning and reflective practices for all , including self-care boys begin their journey toward becoming good men , we aim to provide them with a common language for socialemotional learning ; the ability to recognize , articulate , and regulate their emotions ; and the tools needed to navigate an increasingly complex world . •
Hope Lippens is Head of Lower School at Saint David ’ s School . Nick Imbelli ’ 99 is Assistant Head of Lower School and Lower School Sophrosyne Coordinator .
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