Student Support
NTPS uses a variety of strategies to support students in learning the Washington State Social Emotional Learning Standards, Benchmarks and Indicators (see NTPS SEL Policy 3112).
Positive Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS) is a proactive approach to increasing positive student behavior through direct instruction. In every school, staff teach behavior expectations to students that are consistent with pro-social traits such as responsibility and respect. The behavior expectations are taught to students throughout the school year in different areas of the school. Students receive positive recognition for following behavior expectations. Students who have difficulty with learning behavior expectations are provided additional instruction in small groups or on an individual basis. Parents play a key role in supporting PBIS by positively acknowledging their students when they follow the behavior expectations at their school.
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Curriculum provides a foundation for safe and positive learning and enhances students’ ability to succeed in school, career, and life. Extensive research shows a positive correlation between the skills taught throughout social emotional learning programs and positive behavior, academic achievement, and healthier life choices.
SEL curriculum for Preschool and Kindergarten–5th grade is called Second Step. Students learn to:
- Control impulses
- Communicate clearly and assertively
- Maintain cooperative relationships
- Make responsible decisions
- Solve problems effectively
- Recognize emotions in oneself and others
- Manage strong emotions
- Have empathy for others
SEL curriculum for grades 6–12 is called Character Strong, which blends social-emotional learning with character development. Students learn:
- Self-awareness
- Self-management
- Social awareness
- Relationship skills
- Responsible decision-making
- Patience
- Kindness
- Honesty
- Respect
- Selflessness
- Forgiveness
- Commitment
- Humility
Universal Social-Emotional Screeners and Supports: Throughout the year, your student will participate in school-wide universal screening to determine their skill levels in social emotional learning, reading, writing and math. Students in need of additional support may be provided instructional at their level. This support is in addition to your child’s regular classroom instruction. Throughout our schools, additional support for students may occur within or outside the classroom. Students are supported individually and in small group settings. Interventions for social emotional learning may include social skill building, organization/time management learning, mentoring, self-management skills, and others.
Mental Health: NTPS is deeply concerned for each student’s mental wellbeing. There is a mental health specialist assigned to each school. If you have concerns about your child’s mental health, please see the NTPS Mental Health Webpage or contact your school counselor for a referral.
These areas and more are overseen by the NTPS Student Support Department.