SEL Monthly Topics
September: Positive Communication
At Rhodes, we want to build positive communication habits between staff, students, self, and community members. During September, students will learn how to turn negative statements into positive communication. This can be seen through body language, voice, or actions.
September Teachable Topics: Body language when listening, communicating to teachers/ adults, communicating with peers, communicating with oneself.
October: Caring and Kindness
At Rhodes, we want to provide a caring and kind environment to all students and staff. October is the time of year to consider taking care of others. Caring involves the practical act of kindness. The Rhodes Community of students and adults can show they care by working together, listening to everyone’s ideas, sharing and respecting other’s differences.
October Teachable Topics: Helping people in need, forgiving others and expressing gratitude, looking towards the uniqueness in each other.
November: Giving & Gratitude
At Rhodes, we focus on being thankful even when things are challenging. November is a time to focus on gratitude. Gratitude means feeling thankful and appreciative for what you already have. The Rhodes Community of students and adults can show gratitude by recognizing what we are grateful for, learning to notice all the little things that happen that bring us joy and happiness.
December: Self Esteem
At Rhodes, we value trustworthiness. Trustworthiness is being honest, telling the truth, keeping promises, and being loyal so people can trust you. Trustworthy people don't lie, cheat or steal. They have integrity and the moral courage to stand up for their beliefs even when it is difficult to do so.
December Teachable Topic: Students will discuss situations that involve honesty and dishonesty. They will then practice foundational skills for building trustworthiness including when to tell the truth, and when they should withhold their thoughts or opinions.
January: Erin’s Law
At Rhodes, we want all students to feel a part of a community. Rhodes family events encourage students of all grade levels to work together in building strong connections and becoming positive role models. Each family event is uniquely created to have a variety of fun and engaging activities.
Erin’s Law: In accordance to state laws, Rhodes school implements a prevention-oriented child sexual abuse program which teaches:
January Teachable Topic: students will learn age-appropriate techniques to recognize the warning signs of child sexual abuse, needed assistance, and referral or resource information for support
February: Fairness
At Rhodes, we want all students treating each other fairly in all environments. We want students to understand that we all have different needs. During February, we will help the students define and apply the terms equity and equality in life and in the classroom.
February Teachable Topics: Playing by the rules, taking turns and sharing, being open minded, not placing blame, equity vs. equality.
March: Values
At Rhodes, we want to provide a value system for our students. "Values are often passed down by family, and the society you live in. To begin exploring your own values, think about the values of the people who surround you."
April: Mindfulness
At Rhodes, we want students to be aware of one’s feelings, thoughts, and physical reactions to what is taking place in the moment. This awareness is called mindfulness. We want to begin teaching students self-regulation skills and coping strategies to be present and active in one’s learning community.
April Teachable Topics: Yoga, breathing exercises, stress balls, mindfulness activities.
May: Review
Please review previous monthly SEL topics and Rhodes Respect Matrix