M2 contributes to students’ holistic development, fostering resilience and self-awareness.

Dr. Darcel Hogans | Atlanta Public Schools

USE CASE

District-wide initiative; self-awareness & self-management

Dr. Darcel Hogans

Media Specialist

School/District:

Tuskegee Airmen Global Academy, Atlanta Public Schools

Grade Level K-5

In Atlanta Public Schools (APS), we prioritize the holistic development of our students as part of our APS 5 initiative, which guides everything we do. One of the five measurable methods is whole child and intervention, emphasizing not only academic excellence but also social and emotional well-being. As part of this commitment, the media center plays a crucial role in fostering a safe and calm environment where students can reflect on their emotions and learn to manage them effectively.

Fostering holistic development

In each of our classrooms, there is a designated area called the “Calming Corner,” where students can go to calm down if they are frustrated or overwhelmed. While this space is beneficial, a challenge arises from the limited privacy it offers. Many classrooms lack sufficient space to provide the privacy needed for students to find peace and tranquility. Due to this limitation, teachers struggle to create dedicated areas that nurture the social and emotional well-being of their students.

The challenge lies not only in calming the student in the immediate moment but in equipping them with tools for ongoing emotional well-being.

A collaborative approach to student well-being

To support students who need a moment to reflect, I have implemented a collaborative approach between myself and the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Coordinator. Together, we utilize M2 to provide students with a private space (the “Reflection Zone”) for reflection and self-regulation. 

In addition to providing a space for reflection, I also incorporate reading and books into our SEL support. Within the Reflection Zone there is a collection of books that address emotions, anger management, and mindfulness, which students can explore to further support their emotional well-being.

By seamlessly integrating mindfulness into the process of emotional support, M2 was able to contribute to the student’s holistic development, fostering resilience and self-awareness. This dual approach not only addresses the immediate emotional needs of the student but also lays the groundwork for a more mindful and emotionally intelligent future. 

Self-awareness in academic spaces

By reviewing their reflections, students can develop self-awareness and learn strategies to regulate their emotions effectively. The media center has become a calm and supportive space, promoting emotional well-being for all students. Through guided reflection, students enhance their social and emotional learning skills, such as self-awareness, self-management, and responsible decision-making.

The collaboration between the media center and the SEL Coordinator has had a positive impact on our school community. The media center is now recognized as the calmest place in the building, where students can not only access books but also seek support and develop essential life skills. By prioritizing the social and emotional well-being of our students, we are creating a nurturing environment that supports the whole child.

Pilot M2 in your school or district

Ready to transform your reflective practice? Schedule a consultation to learn more about M2 by Swivl and plan a pilot program to test its effectiveness in your school or district.

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