School Board Updates Second Step Digital Platform for Social Emotional Learning Curriculum

The Curriculum Committee Meeting held on September 2, 2025, by the School Board of Wisconsin focused on significant updates to the Second Step digital platform, a key resource for the district's social-emotional learning curriculum. This annual presentation, led by Missus Maelstrom and Missus Hughes, aimed to inform board members about the latest enhancements and changes to the curriculum, which was initially approved for grades K through 8 in 2021.

The Second Step platform is designed to be dynamic, allowing for yearly updates that reflect the latest educational practices and insights. This adaptability is crucial, as it ensures that the curriculum remains relevant and effective in addressing the social-emotional needs of students. Each fall, the district's student services coordinator, Carrie Hughes, meticulously reviews every lesson within the platform to identify necessary updates. This process underscores the district's commitment to transparency, as any changes made to the digital curriculum are communicated to the board and the community.

In addition to the digital platform, the meeting highlighted the importance of the district's communication plan. This plan ensures that parents are informed about the curriculum content in advance of lessons. Each lesson is accompanied by a newsletter that outlines the primary objectives and includes at-home activities for parents to engage with their children. This proactive approach fosters a collaborative environment between schools and families, enhancing the overall educational experience.

As the meeting progressed, Missus Maelstrom presented a visual graphic detailing the specific changes made to the digital platform. This visual aid aimed to clarify the updates and their implications for both educators and students.

In conclusion, the discussions during the Curriculum Committee Meeting emphasized the district's ongoing efforts to enhance its social-emotional learning curriculum through the Second Step platform. The commitment to regular updates and effective communication with parents reflects a broader goal of fostering a supportive educational environment. As the school year unfolds, the board and community will continue to monitor these developments to ensure they meet the evolving needs of students.