Social-Emotional Learning

Our elementary school's SEL curriculum is Second Step, developed by the Committee for Children. It has a strong evidence base and includes engaging, age-appropriate educational games, activities, and media, aligning with the Washington State SEL standards. Every elementary classroom has 20 minutes of SEL time built into its daily schedule. SEL classroom time consists of Second Step lessons and group activities.

Second Step website

Secondary schools utilize the Character Strong curriculum in conjunction with Second Step's curriculum for bullying prevention. The modules cater to multiple learning styles, engaging discussion and reflection, which puts character into practical actions to encourage learning and relationship building.

High schools set aside time in their advisory classes for SEL lessons, high school and beyond plans, and other important work.

Character Strong website

The Devereux Student Strengths Assessment (DESSA) from Aperture Education is an evidence-based SEL assessment given to all NTPS students to measure social and emotional competence. It focuses on eight key social areas: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, goal-directed behavior, personal responsibility, decision-making, and optimistic thinking. DESSA scores help guide schools, classrooms, and groups towards growth areas.

DESSA Parent Portal