Marie Garozzo, Speech Language Pathologist and Andrea Crabtree Special Educator - Grades 4-6

The aim of the program is to use children’s literature to focus on the development of social and emotional skills while also complementing the existing literacy and comprehension goals of the ELA curriculum. The grant will begin the purchase of specially selected picture books and novels that can be used to anchor discussions on social and emotional issues such as problem solving in social situations, expressing and managing emotions, developing tolerance and acceptance and evaluating personal strengths and weaknesses. While certain aspects of these social and emotional skills are embedded in the curriculum, they are not taught explicitly. Many students learn these skills implicitly while others need direct instruction and guidance. The program will teach those students in grade appropriate lessons how to express their emotions, appreciate the point of view of others, and how to disagree in a respectful manner.