Social Emotional Support
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The importance of including Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) within the classroom curriculum has gained a lot of global recognition within recent years. Studies have linked an increase of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) to an increase in academic performance. SEL is an integral part of our school culture and educational philosophy at AST.
Emotional intelligence predicts academic performance. The definition of career readiness has changed with the advancements of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR). As we embark on Industry 4.0 there is a growing demand for employees with higher EQ skills in the current workforce. The World Economic Forum highlights ten current job skills sought after by some of the world's leading companies. AST is committed to excellence, integrity, and a responsibility to ensure that all of our students are receiving the highest educational opportunities possible to ensure their success as global citizens beyond their academic career here with us. As part of this commitment, AST is developing thoughtful programs that vertically align with the International School Counselor Association (ISCA) standards, as well as incorporate the core SEL competencies supported by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), across all grade 1-12 classes. SEL focuses on teaching students important life skill concepts including:
Students learn these skills through interactive classroom activities, facilitated classroom discussions, and real life application opportunities. |
Ms. Rubecca Hou,
Social Emotional Coordinator 
Your child's safety is incredibly important to us. As part of our Child Protection Initiative, this QR code, which is linked to our Incident Reporting Form, is posted around campus. This provides students with immediate access to report any incidences they encounter. These reports will be immediately managed by the administrators and counselors.
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Clarifying Bullying
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AST takes bullying very seriously, and we will thoroughly investigate any incidences that arise. However, please be aware that there is a difference between bullying and mean or rude behavior. An incident MUST have all 3 of the following components to be classified as bullying:
Unwanted behavior An imbalance of power Repeated actions |
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Morning Quiet Time
Elementary students begin each day with 20 minutes of yoga and mindfulness. This has been an ongoing practice at AST for the past five years, and we have found that it enhances the students' ability to focus in class. Again, research supports the value of integrating Mindfulness Practices within the school. This article, Why Mindfulness Belongs In The Classroom, explains that Mindfulness "helps improve memory, organizational skills, reading and math scores, all while giving kids the tools they need to handle toxic stress." Yoga provides opportunities for the students to start the day fresh by stretching and practicing their flexibility, strength development and balance. Mindfulness is taught through breathing techniques, guided awareness, and story books.
