If you’ve ever had to sit alone at a school lunch table, you know how awkward and embarrassing that can be, but it just takes one person to take that anxious feeling away.
Encouraging compassion and empathy is a top priority for Wood Middle School Family Specialist Ruby Morris. Incorporating hands-on learning experiences can have a lasting effect on students, and National No One Eats Alone Day was no different. The entire sixth-grade class took part in a workshop that empowered them to practice ice breakers and conversation starters with their peers.
“It’s giving students the tools to be able to engage with students who are eating alone,” said Morris. “They’re going to sit down and talk about positive comments and compliments that they can give or would like to hear themselves.”
Family Specialists like Morris offer support to students in their formative years. She’s committed to making every student feel like they belong on campus. It’s human nature to want to belong somewhere, and she believes prioritizing Social Emotional Learning (SEL) can make all the difference.
“We’re really trying to touch on Social Emotional Learning and this gives them the skills to empathize and socialize and know that everybody wants to feel included,” said Morris. “It’s as easy as striking up a conversation and that can change a child’s day.”
Superior HealthPlan assisted Morris with the workshop. Click here to learn more about the Family Specialists at North East ISD.
