Summary: Join C.T. and guest Julie MacArthur, Principal of Brewer Island Elementary School in Foster City, California, as they explore how a strong focus on social-emotional learning (SEL) shapes a joyful and inclusive school community. 

Key Takeaways:

• Diverse, Joyful Environment: Brewer Island is a small, culturally rich school with over 300 students speaking 30+ languages, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
• Strong Staff Community: Many teachers and staff have worked at the school for decades, fostering deep relationships and stability.
• SEL as a Foundational Lens: SEL is not an add-on, but the lens through which all learning and teaching occur at Brewer Island. It’s about helping students develop a strong sense of self, emotional literacy, and the ability to navigate challenges.
• Beyond “Soft Skills”: SEL is deeply embedded in academic learning, not just about feelings or “soft skills.” It’s essential for academic success and lifelong well-being.
• Teaching Grit and Perseverance: Students are explicitly taught to value effort, perseverance, and optimism, especially when facing challenges in subjects like math.
• Productive Struggle: The school encourages students to embrace struggle as a normal and necessary part of learning, helping them build resilience and confidence.

Chapters:

00:00  Introduction: Raising Happy and Healthy Adults

00:37  Meet Julie MacArthur: Principal of Brewer Island Elementary

01:18  The Diverse Community of Brewer Island

04:34  Understanding Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

08:12  SEL in Mathematics: Embracing Productive Struggle

15:13  Embedding SEL in the Curriculum

22:16  The Importance of Failure and Grit

25:08  Leadership and SEL: Building a Supportive Community

29:39  Julie MacArthur's Journey to Administration

33:05  Advice for Aspiring Educational Leaders

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Julie MacArthur: linkedin.com/in/julie-m-91168951



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