On Friday, March 1st, Bound Brook High School, an Empower Somerset partner school under the SchoolHealthNJ grant, hosted a vibrant Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Day for students and staff. Designed to nurture positive relationships and support mental and emotional well-being, the day featured a lineup of thoughtful activities and meaningful engagements.
The SEL Day started with special perks for staff members, who enjoyed massages and protein shakes generously provided by local businesses. These offerings were a way to recognize the dedication of school staff and create a supportive environment for the entire community.
Adding inspiration throughout the day, Bound Brook High decorated mirrors in school restrooms with motivational stickers featuring uplifting quotes and phrases. Students and staff encountered these messages as small reminders of positivity and self-worth during their daily routines. Meanwhile, seniors in the 12th grade contributed their own messages of encouragement by creating a compliment banner displayed in the cafeteria, adding a personalized touch to the day’s theme.
In study hall, students and staff participated in guided mindfulness meditation sessions using Inner Explorer videos, providing a calming space for introspection and stress relief. Music filled the school halls in the morning, between classes, and at dismissal, helping set an upbeat tone and promoting a positive school culture.
The day also introduced a Fitness BINGO kickoff for staff members, encouraging physical activity and fostering a fun sense of community among faculty.
Highlighting the day was a visit from Daniel “Bookem” Rivera, Founder of The Bridges Project, and Derrick Machado, the organization’s Director of Operations. Rivera and Machado shared their personal stories and wisdom with the freshman class, inspiring students to pursue positive paths and focus on surrounding themselves with mentors and role models. Through heartfelt stories and interactive activities, Rivera and Machado offered the freshmen valuable insights into resilience, self-confidence, and planning for a successful future.
The SEL Day at Bound Brook High School was an inspiring celebration of positivity, connection, and wellness, made possible by the school’s dedication and community partnerships. Through thoughtful activities and an emphasis on mental and emotional health, SEL Day served as a reminder to students and staff alike of the power of community and personal growth.
For more information on The Bridges Project, visit their website.
Below is a short, minute-long video, created by the school, that showcases the different aspects of the SEL day.
