Second Step® Stories
Thousands of schools around the world and more than 20 million children benefit from Second Step programs each year. What do they get out of the programs? Students who are ready to learn. Educators with the tools to make a difference. Districts and schools that successfully build a connected community with a shared vocabulary. And yes, improved academics.
Discover their stories.
Second Step® programs have expanded my strategies for teaching [human skills] and helped me create an avenue where my students' voices can be heard and they are accepted for who they are.
Nerwin Balilu, Second Step 2023 Educator of the Year
Grades 6–8 Resource Teacher, Arizona
Create Successful Learners
Create a healthy learning environment and teach competencies that support the whole child for a lifetime of learning.
Before, things in class were more chaotic, but now things are quieter and students are able to walk through situations with each other.
Early Learning Teacher, Western New York
Empower Educators
Give teachers what they need to make a difference: more time for teaching, tools they can easily embrace, and help with what matters most—improving kids’ lives.
They’re not even the same kids anymore.
Jeannie Larberg, Comprehensive Guidance Coordinator, Sumner School District, WA
Provide a Common Language
Unify your school community. Get everyone on the same team, use language that builds relationships and student success, and build a positive school climate.
Second Step programs put into words the feelings and emotions that kids have and sometimes don’t know how to express.
Andrea Jennings, Graduate Student/Teacher, The Bridge Project, Denver, CO
Improve Academics
Invest in each child’s potential. Give all students a better shot at success, boost attendance and graduation rates, and improve measures of academic performance.
