With this year’s theme, “Mindful Hearts, Soaring Wings,” Well-being* continues to be at the heart of educational practices at The Dewey Schools. Alongside students’ academic programs and experiential learning activities, Well-being principles are thoughtfully integrated into the beginning-of-year professional development series for teachers and specialist staff, equipping them with stronger competencies in social-emotional education and mental health support.
A happy school environment begins with happy teachers. When educators are equipped to manage their emotions and navigate personal pressures, positive energy can naturally flow into their interactions with students. Building on this foundation, the training series promotes the practice of positive discipline through meaningful relationships grounded in connection and mutual respect between teachers and students. Rather than relying on control or imposition, teachers take on the role of facilitators, empowering students to take ownership of their behavior and develop the ability to self-regulate.
Recognizing the psychological and emotional changes, as well as the growing need for self-expression and identity formation during adolescence, the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) training provides teachers with new perspectives and practical tools to support students through this transformative stage. A key focus is the “Mentor Mindset,” which positions teachers as trusted guides who listen attentively, recognize and encourage small steps of progress, and empower students to explore their potential and discover their own paths forward.
For the Psychology and SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) teams, specialized training further strengthens their capacity to apply validated clinical screening tools to identify early signs of anxiety, depression, or self-harm risk among students. The teams are also trained in Motivational Interviewing, an approach to communication that helps individuals discover their own motivation for change rather than having change imposed externally. Combined with the support of family, school, and peers, this approach enables students to build greater self-confidence and develop positive ways of navigating challenges and pressure.
Dewey’s systematic and professional investment in Well-being training is a clear reflection of its commitment to creating a safe, compassionate, and happy school environment. The close-knit network connecting teachers, specialist teams, psychological professionals, and families creates a comprehensive educational ecosystem that nurtures students who are emotionally resilient, confident in taking ownership of themselves, and ready to “soar beyond.”
#wellbeing #mindfulheartssoaringwings
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*Well-being – often understood as psychological and social well-being – is a multidimensional concept reflecting positive development across the physical, emotional, psychological, and social dimensions of human life. What distinguishes Dewey’s Well-being model is its systematic implementation, data-informed decision-making, and multidimensional approach. Rather than focusing solely on individual counseling sessions, workshops, or standalone Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs, Dewey has established a proactive and comprehensive support framework aligned with the standards of the Council of International Schools (CIS).
