Social Emotional Learning at Columbia School District

Columbia School District counselors are focusing their efforts during this critical time on mental health through social emotional learning, sometimes referred to as SEL.  This area of learning encompasses the process whereby our students attain and successfully apply the knowledge, outlooks and skills essential to recognize emotions, set goals, feel and show understanding and empathy, and form and sustain constructive affiliations and connections with others. When researching social emotional learning, educators have learned that students who benefit from SEL support may improve and achieve at a higher level.

Columbia Central High School counselor Wendy Diefenthaler explained that she has a Google Classroom with outside resources posted to help students with SEL and mental health concerns.  She continued by saying that, “We have posted different techniques for the students to go through when they are stressed, i.e. deep breathing, journaling, or drawing.”  In addition she mentioned that, “We have posted apps that are good for the kids to use. We are also all available for zoom sessions or phone calls.”

Columbia Elementary School counselor Ashley Phelps reported that all of the Columbia School District counselors contribute to a newsletter that contains resources and helpful tools on a monthly basis.  She continued by saying that, “CES has a SEL section in our building newsletter.  At CES I am doing class lessons, and providing recorded videos and video resources for teachers to play for classes focusing on different SEL topics.”  She talked about the fact that both elementary buildings have a daily mood meter with check-ins that have follow ups depending on student needs.

Columbia Central Junior High School counselor Storm Caryl talked about her work with small groups of students and information in the newsletter.  She mentioned that her, “Google classroom is updated weekly with tips and tricks to navigate online learning.”  She continued by saying that she often posts tips with positive affirmations, tips for testing anxiety, coping skills and a tentative schedule for students who have to be online for an extended time to use.”  One of the things that she often does to support students is to “reach out to all students who are struggling at home with grades and offer different skills for them to utilize based on their needs.”  She also holds a Health and wellness zoom session that focuses on mental health every Thursday.”  She collaborates with the Options High School teachers and provides them resources for their students.

At Columbia Options, Principal Lisa Klink mentioned that while they do not have a counselor, “our teachers have journals, circles and group chats. The students fill out individual surveys and have space for quiet contemplation when requested.  We also refer students to DoChas. Students are encouraged to grow and develop through rebuilding assignments with their teachers.”

Columbia Upper Elementary counselor Krista Schatzel mentioned that she has “provided Social Emotional support through guidance lessons, our Sources of Strength curriculum (a SEL curriculum for fifth and sixth grade), and individual counseling.”  During a normal school year, Mrs. Schatzel would also hold groups, but this year she is only working with individual students. 

Columbia School District is focused on nurturing our students and helping to empower them through a positive learning environment.  The social emotional learning activities that take place on all levels are important to our students’ growth and development.  Social-emotional learning has also been shown to positively influence mental health in students. Developing these abilities in our students is an important part of a positive successful future.  If you are interested in learning more about Columbia’s emphasis on SEL, please contact the counselor at your child’s school or email me at Pamela.Campbell@myeagles.org .

Reach for New Heights!

 

Smart!  Often we think that being smart is because we were born that way, but some people believe you can increase your intelligence.  Which one is correct?  Do the differing opinions matter?  Research studies have proven that your belief in your ability to get smarter can assist you in facing a challenge, like taking a difficult class or completing a lengthy project.

When people who believe they can overcome a deficit and get smarter end up facing a difficult concern, they don’t quit, they just work harder.  Often they find that a search on the internet can assist them in solving that tough math problem or finding an explanation of a scientific concept.  The extra time and effort they put in to solving the problem, or opting for an alternate approach can pay dividends when they successfully complete the task at hand.

How can you help your child become one of the people who will benefit from persevering?  You can help your child by telling him or her that you are confident in their abilities.  It might sound a little like, “If you keep trying, I know you will be able to accomplish it.”  You can use this option to help your child: “You are working very diligently on learning your math facts.  Pretty soon you will know them by heart.”  A parent or grandparent can also teach the value of hard work by telling their child or grandchild, “I am impressed with your focus and hard work.  I am so proud that you didn’t just give up.”    You could also try assisting and encouraging your little student by telling them, “If you continue to work on your social studies project for a little bit each day this week, you will be finished sooner than you can imagine.  I know we will both be pleased with the outcome.”

Children like to be successful and have people appreciate their effort.  They can benefit from learning the value of perseverance and hard work.  When you talk to your children about working hard and being diligent, you will want to let them know that your successes have come from practicing and working on something over the course of several years; things don’t just magically happen.  For instance, your ability to shoot a layup is a result of hours of practice, or the reason why you can type so well is because you practice.

Children can benefit from your encouragement and reinforcement of their efforts.  Your partnership with your child as they learn the value of hard work and perseverance will make a big difference in their lives as they tackle challenges in the future.  A little reassurance and inspiration now, will reap big dividends in the future!  If you have questions regarding Columbia School District, email me at Pamela.Campbell@myeagles.org or call 5175926641.

Bitmoji Classrooms at Columbia Elementary School!

 

Columbia School District teachers are leading the way in Jackson County!  I had an opportunity to take a look at some of the Bitmojis that have been created by our teachers.  A Bitmoji is your own personal emoji (think a personalized smiley face).  The Bitmojis created by our teachers look like the teacher and have characteristics that will assist the students in a virtual environment or classroom. 

Although this sounds complicated, the Bitmoji classrooms created by our elementary teachers are usable and will help our students keep up to date if they have to work from home.  As I spoke to Mrs. McBean and Mrs. Hogel, about their Bitmoji classrooms, I was fascinated and awestruck at the intricacies of the virtual classrooms.  One of Mrs. Hogel’s scenes have her standing in the virtual classroom with a cup of coffee in her hand.  In one of the virtual classroom areas, Mrs. McBean is sitting comfortably in a chair.

Their virtual Bitmoji classrooms feature links to iReady, Accelerated Reader, and more!  They have special activities and schedules for every day of the week, just like the traditional classroom.  The virtual classrooms even have a classroom library filled with books, math tool kit, and spelling words.  The classrooms are set up to help students feel comfortable with a virtual environment in case it is necessary.  The teachers have not only set up the Bitmoji classrooms, but they have taught their students to use the classroom and to be familiar with the learning areas. 

When I looked at Mrs. Hogel’s Bitmoji classroom, she gave all the credit to her fellow teacher, Mrs. McBean.  She said that Samantha McBean had created a virtual classroom and that she taught the other staff members how to use their creativity in developing this unique type of virtual classroom.  When talking about her Bitmoji, Mrs. McBean mentioned that she had “fun learning all the new technology and ways we can use it with our students!”

She continued by saying that, “In the spring when we had to switch to virtual learning I quickly found that I liked creating content and slides to present information to my students. Over the course of our distant learning I was getting better each week creating things and enjoyed doing it.”  Mrs. McBean is not only a fabulous Columbia Elementary School first grade teacher, she presented her “new tricks and ideas” on Flipgrid at the acclaimed Jackson Intermediate School District County-wide technology professional development day: Edtech.

Her expertise in integration of technology into teaching and learning propelled her to present a seminar “on creating with Google slides at the August Columbia School District professional development day.”  She said that she “put together a cheat sheet of most of the things I have learned and shared that with my colleagues to help them navigate Google slides and create a Bitmoji classroom.”

As I spoke to Mrs. McBean about her time with her students at Columbia Elementary School, she mentioned that she “teaches first grade at Columbia and loves this age group. They are fun and engaging and love learning the new technology with me.”  Mrs. McBean is a wonderful teacher and she epitomizes the Columbia Vision: “Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow.”  If you are interested in learning more about Columbia and our programs, email me at Pamela.Campbell@myeagles.org or call 517.592.6641.

Work Hard and Be Kind at Columbia School District!

Morrie Boogaart was known as the Hat Man.  For more than 15 years Morrie worked diligently knitting hats for the homeless.  In his former life Morrie was in the Navy during World War II, owned the Bergsma Bakery, and was a custodian at the Third Reformed Church in Grand Rapids. 

When Mr. Boogaart was bedridden with cancer, he couldn’t sit idly by, his servant’s heart made him stay active caring about the needy.  He began knitting hats for the homeless.  Eventually Morrie was transferred to Hospice care.  Over the years, Morrie knitted thousands of hats which made a difference to the homeless people who received his handmade hats.  One observer, Abbey Sladick, was quoted as saying, “Morrie teaches everybody that no matter how old we are, or what medical condition we may have, we can all give back in some way.  We can all learn from Morrie Boogaart.”  Over his fifteen years of knitting Morrie Boogaart knitted more than 8,000 hats.  He became so famous for his hats, individuals around the world sent him yarn to support this great work.

Although he passed away at 92 years old, over two years ago, his servant’s heart and sacrifice is still inspiring people who were touched by his story.  The Columbia School District is filled with people with a servant’s heart, who care about the community and the students.  At Columbia Elementary and Columbia Upper Elementary School the motto is “Work Hard and Be Kind.”  Similar to the amazing kindness exhibited by Morrie, our students are focused on being kind.

At Columbia Elementary School, students show kindness by helping out after an activity or program.  At the end of recess they assist by collecting the equipment and putting it away.  Mrs. Wright, principal at Columbia Elementary School, said that the students are so helpful and assist the custodian by picking up trash in the cafeteria after lunch, support other students when their lockers are stuck, and return lost and found items to the office.  Mrs. Wright continued by saying that “it is super cute to see students help each other get their boots on during the winter.”

Students at Columbia Upper Elementary also focus on showing kindness and working hard.  Mrs.
Schatzel, the school counselor said that, “When they interact with each other or an adult in the building, they say kind words, give words of complements or encouragement to their friends.  They may help a fellow student pick up things they dropped or assist their teacher."  Mrs. Schatzel, went on to comment about how hard the students work on a daily basis and that they focus on following rules and procedures, along with doing what their teachers directed.

Columbia School District teachers, staff, and administrators are proud of our students as they work hard and be kind to one another.  We praise our students for their servant’s heart and their positive demeanor.  Having such wonderful students who have the heart of kindness makes Columbia a great school district!  If you are interested in learning more about Columbia School District, email me at Pamela.Campbell@myeagles.org or call 5175926641.

Support Your Child!

 

Are you interested in finding a solution to help support your child successfully completing their homework?  Like a basketball player practicing her shot or a gymnast doing a series of back handsprings, to achieve success, your child will complete homework to practice his or her school work.  If he or she is like most youngsters, homework can be full of challenges, from making a diorama to solving equations in advanced algebra.

You can help your child get started when he or she gets home from school, following a Zoom online meeting with their teacher, or back from a friend’s house.  Children are different with their approach to school work.  Some children may want to relax or play outside, others like to begin with their work immediately.  Try challenging your child to keep track of the two methods for one week to see what is most successful for them.  Your child use a calendar to keep track of their successes.  They may note the avenue they took to complete their school work and if it worked well, or if it was difficult.  At the end of the trial period, have him or her look over the calendar and make a determination of which method was the best.

Your child may need assistance in solving problems.  Strategies are important to use when he or she is stuck during an assignment.  For instance when your child is working on math, he or she may want to use a number line or find a how to section on the internet or in a book.  When your child is reading and gets stumped he or she could look up words over the internet, ask you, or reread the paragraph.

Assist your child by helping him or her stay motivated.  Most children do not enjoy doing homework, so you can help by giving them options for seating areas, and supplying snacks.  You can help by suggesting that he or she change chairs, or plop down in a bean bag chair.  Having a new area to work may promote creativity and increased motivation.  There is no right or wrong sitting position for doing homework, some children. If you have questions regarding Columbia School District, call 5175926641, or email me at Pamela.Campbell@myeagles.org .

School is Cool!

 

Many times our children struggle with the discrepancy between being a good student or being viewed by their friends as “cool.”  How can we as parents send our children the message that “school is cool?”  Here are some tips to spark excitement for your child to get engaged in learning.

Make learning personal for your child.  Look for ways to tie school lessons to your youngster’s life.  For example, if he is learning about verbs, ask him to name his favorite actions: eating, skateboarding or playing basketball.  If he is working on division with decimals, look at the price of a case of pop versus on can, or the price or a loaf of bread versus one piece of bread.  Relating subjects to his interests will help to build his enthusiasm.

Reward your child’s effort in completing his or her school work.  When your child works hard on an assignment, let her know you noticed.  For example, “you solved that tough math problem.  Way to go!”  Focusing on progress, not just on grades, encourages hard work and discourages the urge to give up.

Be an educational tour guide.  Invite your child on a fun learning journey.  For example, tackle a craft project together using a how-to-book.  If you want to order a pizza let her help you find information in the phone book or on the internet.  If you are going on a trip, have her help you use an atlas.  Use a trip to a museum, the zoo, or an arboretum to be a spring board for learning about a science fact, animal or an artist.  The desire to learn can be contagious.  Let’s get our children excited to learn! If you want to learn more about Columbia School District, call me at 5175926641 or email Pamela.Campbell@myeagles.org .

Climbing to New Heights at Columbia!

 

Imagine you were a world famous mountain climber and you were getting ready to climb Mt. Everest.  What would you take with you?  How would you prepare for this adventure?  How would you feel and what would you say and do when you reached the top?  These questions are an example of writing prompts a child may use for their personal or school journal.

Successfully raising a creative writer may be encouraged at home by using various activities to support your child’s writing.  One way you may support their writing is to make it a family activity, with prizes for the most inventive story about using a specific writing prompt.  Many children enjoy writing in a journal.  Help your child get started by letting them choose an attractive journal or making one out of a notebook and create an artistic cover.  Your support of their writing can be advantageous for your child even if they do not want to become a professional writer.  Many careers require that you know how to write well and effectively to be successful.

At Columbia School District teachers work with students to improve their academic success and ability to write creatively.  One of the ways that teachers facilitate learning is through creative writing.  Creative writing helps challenge the young children to become better problem solvers, and in turn helps to increase self-confidence.  As our teachers use their creative writing prompts to assist their young students increase their cognitive abilities, and improve their abilities in mathematics and science by learning to write descriptively.

For students who are working to improve their expertise in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), they enhance their abilities by using creative writing to support their learning.  No matter what their interest is, it is important for our children to become proficient in learning how to write well and write effectively.  If you are interested in learning more about Columbia School District, email me at pamela.campbell@myeagles.org or call 5175926641.