, The Salt Lake Tribune is reporting in-depth on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on education.
In classrooms across Utah, students are taking mindful minutes before tests and asking for 10-minute breaks so they can refocus. Elementary students are learning how to name their emotions during circle times in the mornings, while teens delve into relationship skills not just in health class, but also in advisory periods and even driver’s ed.
This type of curriculum, called social emotional learning, is being added and expanded at Utah schools this year, helping students understand and manage emotions, build positive relationships, make responsible decisions and show empathy for others.