Second Step
In third grade, instruction uses the Second Step program, which provides explicit lessons on managing emotions, building healthy peer relationships, and solving problems collaboratively. Students also learn about digital citizenship, exploring how to make safe, respectful choices in online spaces. Lessons from the Second Step Bullying Prevention Unit support work on empathy, inclusion, and effective conflict resolution, helping students strengthen their role as responsible classmates and community members.
Secondary Resource: Aperture Lessons (DESSA)
Secondary Curricular Resource: Aperture Lessons
Aperture Lessons are short, teacher-led learning experiences designed to strengthen specific social-emotional skills identified through the classwide DESSA-mini screening. When results show that students may benefit from support in areas such as self-management, relationship skills, or decision-making, teachers can use Aperture Lessons to provide focused, developmentally appropriate instruction that builds those competencies. These interactive, practical lessons are easy to integrate into daily routines and help students practice key SEL skills in meaningful ways.
