The Boys Lab

Social Emotional Learning

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Coordinator
Marie Mitchell P'22, marie.mitchell@fairfieldcountryday.org

At FCDS, we recognize that the journey to adulthood is marked not only by intellectual growth but also by the development of emotional resilience, empathy, and interpersonal skills. It is with this thought in mind that we have taken on a whole community approach to social-emotional learning (SEL). Our mission extends beyond the confines of the classroom, instilling in our students a profound understanding of themselves and others, enabling them to communicate effectively, manage conflicts, and cultivate a strong sense of self-worth. As we equip boys with the tools to succeed academically, we also nurture their capacity to lead with empathy, collaborate with integrity, and contribute positively to a world that beckons for compassionate and well-rounded individuals. Whether it be in the classroom, on the playing fields, in a science lab, on stage, or beyond the walls of FCDS, our goal is to intentionally weave social-emotional lessons throughout the day based on these five SEL competencies:
  • Self-Awareness - The ability to recognize one's own emotions and thoughts and how they influence our actions and those around us.
  • Self-Management - Managing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors so that they help rather than hinder our ability to achieve goals. 
  • Social & Cultural/Global Awareness - The ability to sense what others are feeling, being able to take on the perspective of others, and to appreciate and interact positively with diverse groups. 
  • Relationship Skills - Handling their emotions effectively to maintain and establish healthy relationships with others.
  • Responsible Decision Making - Making caring and constructive choices about their personal behaviors and considering how they affect others. 

We believe that a well-rounded education extends beyond textbooks and classrooms, encompassing the mastery of essential life skills that empower boys to navigate the complexities of their future lives with confidence and grace to positively impact the world around them.
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Fairfield Country Day School (FCDS) is a private, all-boys day school in Fairfield, Connecticut.

Founded in 1936 by Laurence W. Gregory, the school has admitted only boys since its inception. As per our mission: Fairfield Country Day School provides an educational community dedicated to the development of impactful young leaders of character and purpose; ready to face the everyday challenges and pivotal turning points of their lifetime with confidence, courage and compassion. Its balanced and challenging program is designed to help each student expand his desire and ability to acquire knowledge, capture his imagination, stimulate his curiosity and creativity, and enhance his self-esteem and respect for others. Each boy’s individual growth is encouraged in an environment that anticipates the future while appreciating the past.

FCDS admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

FCDS is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status.