Dear Morningside Center friends,

At this heartbreaking and horrific moment, we are sustained by the connections, community, and dedication to peace and justice that we see in the schools where we work.

It gives us great comfort that we have so many partners in this work. Among them is our board member Robert Kim, who has just written a powerful article making the case for social and emotional learning. Please read - and share!

When Climate Change Starts to Feel Real: Moving Beyond Climate Anxiety

The lesson supports students in discussing possible responses to the experience of feeling “sad, anxious, angry, powerless, helpless, [or] guilty” about the climate crisis. 

Celebrating Latinx & Hispanic Everyday Resilience & Joy

In honor of the brave ones who have left behind everything they know, for an uncertain search of a chance to survive and, ultimately, thrive, I invite you to think of this: In times of crisis and desperation, how can one find joy?

A Case for Social and Emotional Learning

"SEL isn’t just good for students and their development. It’s also a tool to help schools foster equitable and nondiscriminatory school environments and, in the process, comply with civil rights laws."

By Robert Kim at Kappan Online

Read more

What We're Reading

Being A More Mindful Principal

"Key strategies can help a new leader make better decisions—and strengthen school culture." By Rob Russell & Dustin Miller at ASCD

Teachers’ Stress Trickles Down to Students. Here’s What Schools Are Doing About It

"The adults who work in school buildings are overwhelmed and stressed out. And the effects are trickling down to their students, who are contending with a mental health crisis of their own." By Madeline Will at Education Week

Educating for Democracy 

"Effective civics literacy develops critical thinkers who can connect history and current events to engage in democratic action in building an equitable and just society." By Anthony Conwright at Learning for Justice

“And sometimes focusing on what you can control is the only way to lessen the pang in your chest when you think about the things you can't.” - Elizabeth Acevedo