Ashtyn meets with Social Emotional Learning Specialist, Daniel Bell, where he’s scaffolding new skills, starting with increasing his own self-awareness. He says, “It helps me be more in tune with my emotions and not get caught off guard by negative emotions.”

In his time with Mr. Daniel, Ashytn is learning how to pay attention to the clues his body and mind give him in potentially upsetting and frustrating situations. Now, he can employ tools, like breathing, counting and asking an adult for help. “I’ve learned to walk away from problems with other students. Now it doesn’t bother me like it used to. And I have healthier coping skills to manage my emotions.” This remarkable young man is already seeing the benefits of his hard work. “I’ve learned to focus a lot better and fill my time with productive things, like homework and reading.”