Mrs. Durkin
Developmental Classroom Lessons

I am in all classrooms about two times a month teaching guidance lessons that support the social, emotional, and academic development of students.  Lessons are chosen based on developmental levels and need. 

In first through third grades kids receive Character Education. Research shows character education is supportive of healthy social development, increased academic achievement, and is linked to increased emotional intelligence.  First through third grades are also taught personal safety skills ranging from walking and gun safety to touching safety.  Students in these grades are also taught about bullying and harassment and the skills needed to respond to bullies and how to report bullying.  To see a more detailed description of lessons throughout the year go to First through Third Grade Guidance Curriculum.

Fourth grades reveiw personal safety and receive multiple classes on recognizing, responding to, and reporting bullying using the 'Steps to Respect' curriculum.  Lessons also include decision making skills, understanding consequences, and recognizing and coping with peer pressure.  To see a more detailed description of lessons throughtout the year go to Fourth Grade Classroom Guidance Curriculum.

Fifth graders begin preparing for middle school by learning skills that will help them become more self-aware and independent.  Lessons include units on peer pressure, coping skills, and academic skills.  A two part lesson on career exploration helps kids begin to plan and set goals.  They also review personal safety skills learned in previous grades and a review of recognizing, responding to, and reporting bullying is given two times a year.  To see a more detailed description of lessons throughtout the year go to Fifth Grade Classroom Guidance Curriculum.