As part of Nueva's commitment to nurture the whole child, our nationally recognized Social-Emotional Learning program plays an integral role in the curriculum at every grade level. We encourage students to examine their own thoughts and actions and be sensitive to the feelings and needs of others. Within the context of guided activities and peer feedback, SEL gives children the tools to be successful within the interpersonal domain, as well as to develop personal resiliency and awareness in the intrapersonal domain.

Using an interdisciplinary approach, students focus on emotional literacy skills with SEL specialists, homeroom teachers, and advisers. In the Lower School, children are introduced to the basic vocabulary of emotions. They learn cooperation and problem-solving skills and develop an understanding of what it means to be a member of a group.

Students build on these introductory concepts to develop respect for themselves and others, management of strong feelings and impulses, development of effective communication skills, and the ability to set academic goals. The core competencies developed through the SEL curriculum lead to increased resiliency and empathy and a positive school climate.