Second Step (K-8)

Academic learning and cognitive growth are inextricably linked with social and emotional development and environments. For example, students learn best when they are focused, find information relevant and engaging, and are actively involved in learning. This requires them to have a ready and focused brain, use emotional regulation skills, and also be in an environment where they feel physically and emotionally safe, connected, included, and supported. The CASEL Guide to School-Wide SEL

Accessing the Digital Curricula (K-12th)

All SBCUSD administrators, counselors and teachers have digital access to instructional resources through Second Step & School Connect.

Contact your school administrator or counselor if you have difficulty accessing the curriculum.

School Connect

(High School)

Second Step (K-8)

The elementary Second Step program includes four units - each with five age-appropriate lessons. Lessons require approximately 15 to 30-minutes once per week and include scripting and support for teachers to guide student conversations. Additional resources including videos, songs, and downloadable handouts promote student engagement throughout the week. The last lesson in each unit is a performance task where students demonstrate evidence of their learning.

K-5 Units (5 lessons per unit; 20 lessons per year)

  1. Growth Mindset & Goal Setting

  2. Emotion Management

  3. Empathy & Kindness

  4. Problem-Solving

Elementary Second Step

Program Walkthrough

Middle School

Program Walkthrough

The middle school Second Step program includes four units each with 6-7 age-appropriate lesson on a specific theme. Lessons require approximately 25 minutes once per week with resources to embed and extend learning throughout the week. The program also includes nearly 200 advisory activities and book lists.

6-8 Units

  1. Mindsets & Goals - 7 lessons/grade

  2. Recognizing Bullying & Harassment - 6 lessons/grade

  3. Thoughts, Emotions & Decisions - 6 lessons/grade

  4. Managing Relationships & Social Conflict - 7 lessons/grade

School Connect (High School)

High School

The interactive School Connect high school curriculum includes 80 lessons organized into four modules. Each lesson includes a 2 page lesson outline, PPT slides, student handouts and lesson extensions.

High School Learning Modules

  1. Module 1 - School-Connect Foundations

  2. Module 2 - Communication Skills

  3. Module 3 - Academic Skills and Motivation

  4. Module 4 - Collaboration Skills for Group Projects

  5. Module 5 - Supporting Empathy and Inclusion