
Tag: social-emotional learning
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Youth Hunger For Connection Served Up By Online Expanded Learning Opportunities

With the music pumping and blue disco lights flashing (well…in one kid’s room, at least) students and instructors from Tacoma Arts Live’s Hip-Hop Movement class moved together, via webcam, through the steps of a routine they had just learned. “I’m panting like my dog.” one of the students said, coming closer to the screen as > Continue Reading
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The Legacy of Mr. Rogers In Tacoma’s Whole Child Virtual Expanded Learning

For more than 30 years Mister Rogers used his groundbreaking PBS television show to make a personal connection with millions of children. Speaking directly into the camera, he invited his viewers to join him in learning new things, playing together, and reflecting on what it means to be a good “neighbor”. “Expanded Learning Opportunities have always provided a unique space for students to make connections with each other and with a caring adult.” Building on > Continue Reading
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Social Emotional Learning Helps Kids Navigate COVID-19 Disruptions

Sharing is usually something adults encourage kids to practice. That’s why Tess Guerrero understood how strange it sounded when she explained to a student that they couldn’t share their supplies because of safety measures due to COVID-19. “I don’t want to hear one more thing about this virus!” the student exclaimed. Tess said the student’s > Continue Reading
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Parents See the Difference Caring Adults Make for Their Students

Members of the Vision Step team at Edison Elementary School marched into the cafeteria as they wrapped up their after-school step dance session on a recent afternoon. As the girls waited for their rides to arrive, Codi Scharry and Danielle Bryant, parents of team members, handed out Rice Krispy treats to everyone. “I bring snacks > Continue Reading
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Every Adult Can Build Youth Resilience and Help Students Thrive

During the end-of-school hustle and bustle on a recent afternoon at Tacoma’s Reed Elementary School, a group of students gathered around Gary Lowery. He sat on the steps of a stage in the cafeteria strumming his guitar. After playing a couple tunes of his own, Gary passed the guitar around the circle and let each > Continue Reading
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Simple Strategies Help Students (and Adults) Move Through Challenging Emotions

An easy way to soothe stress is right at your fingertips. Using your forefinger, slowly draw a sideways figure 8 in the air. Breathe in as you move your finger to the right. Breathe out as your finger closes the loop. Repeat drawing the figure with the breaths as many times as it takes to > Continue Reading
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20 Minutes Can Make All The Difference For Students In Expanded Learning

When school lets out at Tacoma’s Birney Elementary, Sergio Beltran can be found outside the cafeteria greeting students as they head into Expanded Learning at the All-Star Center. On a recent Thursday, Sergio noticed one student looked a little down as he entered the space. Sergio took a few minutes right away to talk one-on-one > Continue Reading
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Expanded Learning Opportunites Lead to Growth for Students and the Adults Who Work With Them

Students and parents from 12 Elementary Schools in Tacoma celebrated a school year worth of Expanded Learning Opportunities with an event at Edison Elementary on May 30. The students showcases their learning through art, dance, writing, and song. Parents noticed the difference these Expanded Learning Opportunities made for their kids. “My son has always been > Continue Reading
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Failure is a Necessity for Youth in Alchemy’s Skate In School Program

As his knee hit the ground, Alex Miles quickly tucked and rolled from forearm to shoulder, immediately popping up to his feet and right back onto his skateboard. “I don’t really get that frustrated anymore when I fall,” Alex said, ” I’m just used to it now.” Alex is one of a few students learning > Continue Reading
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Partnering for the Whole Child: Tacoma Public Schools

At Greater Tacoma Community Foundation, we’ve seen how much more we can accomplish when we work together. Since 1981, community members have shared their commitment to a thriving Pierce County by partnering with GTCF to bring their vision to life and build a legacy for future generations. In our 2018 yearbook, Pierce County Partners, a few > Continue Reading