Creating Safe Spaces for Children: SEL Teacher Training Program
In partnership with Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc, Mano Amiga is implementing a four-month Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Program for DepEd public school teachers in Cebu. This is in line with RAFI’s Recovery and Resiliency program for schools that were affected by Typhoon Odette.
Mano Amiga launched the program through a three-day face-to-face workshop to help teachers run a school-wide SEL initiative in their respective districts. Each teacher was also given several sets of the Mano Amiga Empathy Cards which they could use in sharing SEL with their co-teachers. It was a beautiful time to understand the joys and challenges that our Cebu-based public school teachers face, especially after Typhoon Odette.
To provide continued support, a 2-month virtual coaching session is now being held to guide teachers in implementing a tailored SEL Program. These virtual meetings give teachers a platform to clarify certain topics and exchange best practices. Teachers are continuously given guidance and feedback for the SEL programs in their school communities.
The combination of face-to-face training and virtual coaching sessions makes the program a much more meaningful experience. Through SEL, children are able to process their emotions more effectively— enabling them to understand themselves and the people around them better. We are grateful to RAFI and DepED for sharing in our mission of creating a culture of empathy and emotional well-being in more schools. We look forward to more virtual sessions in the next month.
“Thank you so much for the opportunity to have this seminar. Rest assured that what I have learned from this seminar will be applied as I go back to my station. My great salute to the facilitators of Mano Amiga and also to RAFI. Looking forward to more seminars and training like this.” -Christy, Grade School Teacher
“I really like the wheel of wellness session and how to use the empathy cards. It will help me more especially my well-being.”
“SEL has been very helpful in our school, especially to our Grade 12 students, as they face the challenges of the exam. A simple “How are you feeling today?” brought them to tears.” -Pamela, Senior High School Teacher
