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East Islip counselors describe K–2 social-emotional programs at Kanekwad Elementary
Summary
At a Board of Education meeting, Kanekwad Elementary staff outlined classroom- and schoolwide social-emotional programs for kindergarten through second grade, including Start with Hello Week, Unity Day, PSI Love You Day, monthly character recognition and career-day lessons.
The Board of Education heard a presentation from Kanekwad Elementary staff on social-emotional learning programs used with kindergarten through second-grade students.
School leaders said the programs aim to reduce social isolation, build empathy and give young students tools to manage emotions and relationships. "Building strong relationships with families is key to student success," the K–2 guidance counselor said.
Principal Michael Belotti introduced the presentation and turned the floor over to the K–2 counselor, who outlined regular programming and special events designed to promote inclusion and emotional skills. Staff described classroom lessons on emotions, empathy and problem solving; one-on-one and small-group counseling; and outreach to families through workshops and informational sessions.
Among the recurring activities the counselor described were Start with Hello Week, a spirit-week kickoff meant to reduce social isolation; Unity Day, tied to National Bullying Prevention Month and marked by wearing orange to signal acceptance; and PSI Love You Day, which district staff and students observe by wearing purple and sharing classroom activities. The counselor also described a monthly "Caught with Character" recognition program in which one student per classroom is honored for demonstrating a monthly character trait, and a career-day series that brings parents and community members into classrooms.
The counselor said the elementary counseling team developed the lessons in collaboration with the district director of student services and classroom teachers and that presentations and assemblies have included outside presenters. "It's such an amazing way to bring the students and staff together to promote kindness in our community," the counselor said of the PSI Love You Day activities.
The presentation was given during the superintendent's portion of the agenda. No formal board action was taken on the programs during the meeting; the presentation was informational.
District officials said the programs are intended to support academic performance and reduce behavioral issues by building a positive school climate.
