Emily Rounds’ social and emotional learning (SEL) classes at Carl Sandburg Elementary are making strides in developing abilities and enhancing their school environment.

Every week, the two SEL classes combine with sixth-graders for a social experience activity aimed at improving essential life skills.

“We look for service projects in our school that we can assist with while working on social skills, such as collaboration, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving,” Rounds said.

Among the favorite activities is Red Friday – an project in which students make and wear red necklaces every Friday to show support for military personnel. As Sandburg has a high number of military families, this particular exercise has become hugely successful.

Other projects include assisting the principal in designing and distributing posters that stress good behavior and academic achievement.

Overall, Rounds’ students are successfully learning social skills while serving their school community at the same time.