We talk a lot about the Whole Child – the way we try to care for kids 24 hours a day as a school district, as community partners, as neighbors and community. It’s recognizing that taking care of our kids is about academics, but it’s also about helping them learn to build meaningful relationships, resolve conflict and gain the skills to manage emotions.

What do students think about that idea?

Grace Dannen, a student at our Science and Math Institute (SAMi), says kids need that direction.

Managing feelings and working through difficult situations are valuable lessons, she believes. For Grace, what’s especially valuable at school is the focus on restorative practices, a key part of Whole Child. Through restorative practices, students learn how to use communication to address conflicts and, ultimately, improve their school community.

Watch what Grace has to say above.