We are noticing that Collaborative Classroom programs are aligned with developmentally appropriate approaches, and our students are developing a strong reading foundation due to the explicit instruction and a variety of opportunities to apply skills.
In 1980 Dr. Eric Schaps founded the nonprofit Developmental Studies Center (DSC)—the organization that later became Center for the Collaborative Classroom. Today we mourn and honor Eric, who passed away on October 21, 2021, after an extended struggle with cancer. Eric played a significant role in the field of social-emotional learning (SEL) and led our organization’s shift beyond research into the impactful work of supporting teachers and districts across the country.
.In this spotlight, Emily explains how she served on her district's curriculum adoption committee and piloted Collaborative Literacy and SIPPS. She is currently implementing Collaborative Literacy, SIPPS (Systematic Instruction in Phonological Awareness, Phonics, and Sight Words), and Caring School Community.
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Learning has not been lost; it’s simply that different kinds of learning and growth have occurred. These non-traditional experiences matter. They are vital parts of the foundation of learning that students will bring with them once they return to physical school buildings. As educators, it will be up to us to resist a deficit mindset and instead to honor such experiences—and, most importantly, to help students build upon these foundations.
For over three decades I took pride in the fact that my classroom was run in a manner that, at the time, seemed effective. My students were motivated…
January remains an opportunity for a fresh start in our classrooms, particularly when attending to social-emotional learning (SEL) for our students. How do we begin again? How do we reconnect with our students? How do we revitalize our classroom community for the second half of the year?