My Nonprofit Reviews

Having devoted a majority of my 40+ years in education either teaching SEL to Colorado students, teachers and parents, or writing SEL curriculum for schools, I was delighted to come across a new (to me) fun and motivating online curriculum designed for middle elementary – early mid-school aged kids that seemed to blend fundamental SEL pedagogy with a non-denominational approach to spirituality. Wow!! I had been searching for a way to build a deeper understanding of what being connected to each other and our world really means for kids, and here it was in SFK’s Level One Program: Winning the Game of Life! I went through all the lessons in both levels and was impressed with the thoroughness, creativity and thoughtful approach to the development of positive social interactions, emotional awareness/regulation and exploration of that deeper spiritual resonance within us.
I student-tested the Level One program during the last two weeks of the 2024 school year when a student I was working with was about to be expelled from our Colorado K-8 Charter School for repeated defiance, classroom disruption and violent behavior. As the SEL Specialist, I advocated for abbreviated days (to the end of school) with me using the SFK Level 1 curriculum for 90 minutes each day with him instead of expulsion. Once I obtained permission from his parents, and we figured out his schedule (with no classroom contact), our administration gave their blessing. Although our timetable was not how this curriculum was designed, my student enjoyed watching the videos and doing the activities and projects. I continually assessed and retaught key concepts as needed, and at the end of the two weeks, the student not only positively evaluated the program, but also his learning through a PowerPoint presentation to administration. I do not know if he will be returning to our school for this next school year, but I am hopeful that if he does, he will have a better concept of the importance of self-awareness, self-respect and connecting with others through kindness and compassion. I am thankful that SFK came into my life when it did and expect to use it with students in the future.