Primary Project and Second Step

Second Step and Primary Project at Gordon CreekSocial Emotional Learning (SEL) is an integral part of student success in school. Our Gordon Creek Counselor utilizes the Second Step Curriculum and provides Social Emotional Learning lessons to all grade levels on a weekly basis. Our Second Step and Primary Project Programs are under the direction and supervision of Counselor, Lynn Razzano 518.884.7270 x3363.What is Second Step?Second Step is a classroom-based social skills program with a distinct curriculum for each grade. It is designed to reduce impulsive, high-risk, and aggressive behaviors and increase children's social competence and other protective factors.
Second Step Provides Skills for Everyday Success
Children need social-emotional skills to thrive both in the classroom and in life. Social-emotional learning (SEL) curricula teach children techniques to:

• Gain confidence
• Set goals
• Make better decisions
• Collaborate with others in work and play
• Navigate the world more effectively

Additional information can be found here:

Second Step 

Committee for Children: Social Emotional Learning Skills for Lifelong Learning
What is Primary Project? The Children's Institute Video on The Primary Project 

Primary Project is a school-based program designed to enhance school related competencies and reduce social, emotional, and school adjustment difficulties in children in pre-kindergarten through third grade.

How are children selected to participate in Primary Project?
Just as teachers regularly gather information on a child’s academic skills, it is important to gather standard information on how a child is adjusting to school. Teachers meet with the Primary Project team and discuss children that could benefit from the Primary Project. Parents and other staff at the school may also recommend children for participation in Primary Project. The children who benefit the most from Primary Project are the ones who are shy, nervous, have difficulty engaging with other children, or have some trouble with their behavior. If you would like your child to participate in Primary Project, let staff at your school know. 

Who will work with the children? 
Child associates are selected based on their natural abilities to nurture and positively interact with children. Through play-based strategies, child associates work to establish positive relationships with children. In that relationship, children are better able to connect to school and interactions with peers and adults. They typically see children once a week for 30-40 minutes, usually for one semester or 12–15 sessions. The child associate works directly with an experienced professional, receiving regular supervision. Our child associate at Gordon Creek is Mrs. Mary Anne Priest.

How are parents involved? 
Parents must provide written permission for their child to be involved in the Primary Project. As parents, you are encouraged to learn more about the program and contact the school-based mental health professional to receive more information, ask questions, or schedule a visit to the playroom space.

Additional information:

Children's Institute: Whole Child Connection
Primary Project Facts for Parents