Social Emotional Learning

Parmalee Elementary strives to educate and build the social and emotional strength and resilience of every child. We do this by providing tier-one instruction and support at all grade levels. Once a week, teachers or the school counselor teach Second Step lessons. Second Step is a research-based Social Emotional Learning (SEL) program that has been proven to decrease risk factors and increase academics when taught with fidelity. Teachers also hold weekly meetings in which students are allowed to share, reflect and improve relationships thus building a strong sense of collaboration and community.

Parmalee also promotes positive behavior by awarding PAWs when students follow the P-R-R-R’s:

• Pride
• Respect
• Responsibility
• Right to Learn

PAWs are turned into the Panther Box and a weekly drawing is held in which students have the chance to win all sorts of prizes. Prizes have included everything from journals, jump ropes and fidgets to experiential activities that kids can do throughout the school.

An example of an experiential activity is the “My Day, My Way” pass. When you have it your way you get to choose from eight different activities. Students often choose “Ten-minute Teacher” so they have the opportunity to teach the class about one of their interests or hobbies.

The drawing doesn’t stop there! There are two additional drawings. Three times a year, all PAWS from previous drawings are collected and we have the Grand Prize Give-away. Five students from each grade win “Mega-Prize” bags full of seasonal and educational prizes. As if that’s not enough to get kids excited about being and doing their best, we throw a “Party with the Principal” three times a year. Students can win a party with the principal if their name and number land in a column or row on the PAW’s Bingo board. Names are added to the PAW board when kids draw a number after receiving their weekly prize.

The PBIS team is always coming up with new and exciting ways to promote positive behavior and support at Parmalee. We welcome new and creative ideas from our Parmalee community. If you would like to share, please reach out!

Jeffco Public Schools creates and maintains a positive climate and culture in schools that is inclusive and safe for students, families and staff. With a commitment to empowering successful and productive citizens,  the district supports the growth of students through leveled, evidence-based implementation of social emotional learning programming.

What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which students and adults gain and apply the knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary to deal effectively with daily tasks and challenges.

Jeffco has adopted the five core competencies of SEL outlined by the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL). 

• Self-Awareness
• Self-Management
• Social Awareness
• Relationship Skills
• Responsible Decision-Making (CASEL, 2020)

SEL happens in safe and supportive school, family and community environments that support development and provide opportunities and recognition for successfully applying skills.