Fostering a positive and supportive learning environment is a crucial part of Arco Iris Spanish Immersion school. Research has shown that positive social behavior is one of the greatest predictors of academic success. Our tuition-free charter school has made it a top priority for our small school community to prepare our students for their journey, academically and socially, by threading social and emotional learning (SEL) throughout the Arco Iris school day. 

What is SEL?

Social Emotional Learning, also known as “SEL” is an integral part of education and human development. SEL is a process that helps people develop skills to manage their emotions, set goals, and make responsible decisions. Without children understanding their own feelings or the feelings of others, aggressive behavior and uncontrollable emotions can result. Our caring community is adamant about the importance of SEL, which is why we have Luis A. Samayoa, an onsite Student Success Coach at Arco Iris.

How Arco Iris Implements SEL

We are proud of both our continuous community partnership and how we enable effective communication between parents and teachers throughout the school year. In addition to the Arco Iris Counselor’s Corner featured in our Newsletter, we provide important resources to our families to have engaging conversations with their children. 

Our new mural, Brushstrokes of Inclusion, shows that at Arco Iris we don’t just talk the talk, we walk the walk! Here are a few ways Arco Iris stands by our Social Emotional Learning Impact:

• Each month, our Counselor’s Corner features a different theme with new resources. Our “Home and School Partnerships” is a great toolkit for families to continue conversations surrounding inclusion and supporting our diverse community outside of Arco Iris. 

• We share DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) tips to maintain a respectful school community.

• During the school day, Arco Iris Teachers provide lessons and routines that promote SEL and provide restorative justice practices for our students. 

• Arco Iris Staff are vigilant on any reports of bullying, and provide students with the appropriate skills to restore relationships. Arco Iris Staff members receive annual training and guidance in child abuse reporting, safety protocols, and bullying awareness.

• Our Intervention Team has monthly meetings to develop intervention plans for any students who may be at risk in their social emotional learning skills. 

Our small school and tight-knit multicultural community promotes strong relationships among students, peers and teachers. These relationships create a network that helps children navigate challenges, build social skills, and develop empathy and cooperation.

“Our Arco Iris team is prepared to support our students in joyful and caring ways, and support them academically and with their social and emotional needs.” 

- Executive Director Jesús Urdiales

Not loving your current K-5 school? Make the switch, and join us today. Discover our nurturing community where social and emotional intelligence is at the forefront. Only a few spots remain at our tuition-free small school community. Don’t miss out!

About Arco Iris