At Wildwood, we recognize that the foundation for a successful future begins in the early years of education. Our K-2 classrooms implement the Second Step program, which equips students with essential skills in managing their emotions, fostering empathy, and developing problem-solving strategies. These skills not only empower students to navigate their own feelings but also prepare them to support their peers and contribute positively to their community.

Understanding Emotions
One of the core components of the Second Step program is teaching students how to recognize and manage their emotions. Children learn that it is perfectly normal to experience a wide range of feelings, from joy to frustration. By understanding their emotions, students can better regulate their responses, leading to more thoughtful interactions with others. This emotional intelligence is crucial as it lays the groundwork for socially responsible behavior.

The Power of Empathy
Empathy is at the heart of our program. It involves the ability to feel or understand what another person is experiencing. Through engaging activities and discussions, students learn to put themselves in someone else's shoes, which enhances their interpersonal connections. As students cultivate empathy, they become more attuned to the feelings of their classmates, fostering an environment of kindness and support.

Problem-Solving Skills
In addition to emotional management and empathy, the Second Step program emphasizes problem-solving strategies. Students are taught various techniques to generate safe and respectful solutions when conflicts arise. This skill is invaluable, as it empowers students to address disputes constructively rather than resorting to negative behaviors. As they practice these strategies, students learn the importance of communication and collaboration, essential tools in resolving conflicts and building strong relationships.

Real-World Application
At Wildwood, students with these skills can better utilize their gifts and talents to help others. We witness this belief in action daily. Students are encouraged to assist one another during recess, hold doors open, help resolve friend conflicts, and keep our school environment clean. These acts of kindness not only enhance the school community but also reinforce the lessons learned in the classroom

Implementing the Second Step program in our K-2 classrooms is a vital step in nurturing emotionally intelligent, empathetic, and problem-solving young individuals. By instilling these skills early on, we prepare our students not only for academic success but also for a life of meaningful contributions to society. At Wildwood, we are proud to cultivate a generation of compassionate leaders who will continue to make a positive impact on their peers and the world around them.

Mr. Scott Briske
Wildwood Principal
scott.briske@isd832.net

Wildwood Elementary students were challenged to read in the month of December by completing the 12 Days of Reading Challenge. Students were given 25 possible activities to complete that encouraged reading in fun ways or reading books they may not usually read. 

Participation was outstanding with 128 students completing the challenge. Students who completed the challenge were entered into a drawing to win a free book or a crocheted bookworm bookmark. Congratulations to the following students: Eloise Strehlow (K), Wally Jacobson (K), Harper Abel (K), Maddy Loosbrock (1), Ray Arcand (1), Colson Barnhill (1), Addy Powell (2), Ezra Shore (2), and Shreyas Avula (2). 

Happy Reading Wildwood!

On December 12th, our second graders enjoyed a field trip to the Minnesota History Center. There they explored Minnesota's past through exhibits that featured authentic historical objects, hands-on experiences and multimedia presentations.

This week our kindergarten students traveled around to other classrooms to learn about instruments, folktales, games and wants & needs of cultures around the world.

Our kids truly enjoy the snow during recess!