Social Emotional Learning & Inclusion
Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) in Northville Public Schools
At Northville Public Schools, we believe that learning goes beyond academics. Our SEL framework fosters emotional intelligence, resilience, kindness, leadership, and interpersonal skills—preparing students for success in school, community, and life.
SEL Programs & Initiatives
Be Nice (Middle Schools)
- Implemented at Hillside & Meads Mill Middle Schools, Be Nice is a Tier‑1 mental health initiative built on the principles Notice, Invite, Challenge, Empower. It encourages students to support each other, build empathy, and increase mental health awareness through interactive activities and leadership roles.
Second Step® (Early Childhood through Middle School)
- Second Step® is our evidence-based SEL curriculum, used across preschool, elementary, and middle school levels. It strengthens skills like empathy, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
- At the middle school level, Second Step is implemented within enrichment and support classes—supplemented by counseling services.
The Leader In Me (Elementary Schools)
- All six of Northville’s elementary schools are designated as Leader In Me Lighthouse Schools. This school-wide model adopts the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, embedding leadership and goal-setting into students’ daily practices.
- Students develop leadership roles, engage in student-led conferences, monitor goals through leadership notebooks, and use the 4DX model to achieve Wildly Important Goals.
Mentally Strong Mustangs Program (Middle Schools and High School)
Northville’s Mentally Strong Mustangs program empowers middle and high school students, families, and coaches/sponsors with practical tools to support emotional well-being, confidence, and resilience. Through skill-building sessions, guided discussions, and evidence-based strategies, participants learn how to navigate stress, strengthen communication, and foster a positive mindset—both in and out of the classroom.
This program reflects our district’s commitment to nurturing the whole child and creating a supportive community where every Mustang can thrive. There are two webinars available for review - Raising Resilient Teens aimed at parents and caregivers and Leading with Clarity for coaches and club leaders.
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Why These Programs Matter
- SEL builds essential life skills—self-awareness, emotion management, empathy, and responsible decision-making—that benefit students academically, socially, and emotionally.
- These programs integrate research-based curricula (Second Step), proven cultural frameworks (Leader In Me), and community-driven mental health movements (Be Nice) to foster a positive, supportive learning environment.
Counseling & Support Services
Northville is fortunate to provides school counseling services at our secondary buildings and school social work services at elementary and secondary for those identified in need of support. You can find this information on the middle school and high school webpages.
Additional Social & Emotional Support
- Unified Champion School designation (district-wide): promoting inclusion, peer relationships, and empathy for students of all abilities