The Chester Upland School District’s Department of Equitable Learning and Support is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment for all students. Led by Ms. Dana Bowser, our mission is to promote equity and student success by supporting social-emotional development, assisting students experiencing homelessness, and advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in our schools. Below is an overview of our services and resources across each focus area.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
Social-emotional learning is at the heart of our efforts to help students build strong, positive relationships and develop essential life skills. In our district, SEL includes:
• Implementation of The First Five: Developed in partnership with Ed Tomorrow, The First Five offers daily activities to foster connections between students and staff, emphasizing relationship-building and a sense of community in the classroom. (First Five Information)
Positive Action SEL Curriculum: This comprehensive curriculum promotes positive behavior by encouraging students to see the benefits of self-care, empathy, and respect for others.
Small Group Work and Supplemental Resources: We provide small group sessions, additional SEL resources, and activities designed to support the social-emotional needs of all students, whether individually or in groups, to enhance their self-awareness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills.
Monthly SEL Calendar:
Every month, there is a theme of focus in regard to social emotional learning that encompasses one of the five core competencies of social emotional learning. The calendars are posted around all of the schools and are also distributed to the community and posted on the website and social media pages so that social emotional learning does not just take place inside of school, but outside of school as well.
By focusing on SEL, we aim to nurture the social, emotional, and academic growth of every student, helping them to thrive in a supportive school community.
Support for Students Experiencing Homelessness
We believe that every student deserves stability and security. Our department is here to support students experiencing homelessness, helping them access the resources and rights to which they’re entitled. This includes:
Pennsylvania Rights for Students Experiencing Homelessness: Under Pennsylvania law, students experiencing homelessness have specific rights, such as immediate school enrollment, free meals, and access to resources and support. More information can be found on the Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH) website.
Resources in Delaware County: We provide a variety of local resources in Delaware County, including housing assistance, academic support, and basic necessities to help students and families navigate challenges associated with homelessness.
Contact Information: If you have questions or need support, please contact the social worker at your child’s school, or reach out to Ms. Dana Bowser, Director of the Department of Equitable Learning and Support, at dbowser@chesteruplandsd.org.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB)
We are committed to creating a district where all students and staff feel respected, valued, and included. Our DEIB efforts are designed to celebrate diversity, promote equity, and foster a deep sense of belonging for every member of our community. Our initiatives include:
DEIB Conversations: We host ongoing conversations around diversity, equity, and inclusion, inviting students, staff, and families to share perspectives and ideas for building a more inclusive community.
Activities and Programs: Our department organizes a variety of activities and programs that celebrate different cultures, traditions, and backgrounds. From cultural heritage events to inclusive classroom practices, we aim to create a school environment that reflects the richness of our diverse community.
Commitment to Belonging: Our goal is for each student and staff member to feel a strong sense of belonging within our schools. We believe that when individuals feel seen, heard, and valued, they can succeed both academically and personally.
Equity, Inclusion and Belonging in Pennsylvania
For more information or to get involved in our DEIB initiatives, please contact the Department of Equitable Learning and Support.
Our department is here to support all students, families, and staff. We are proud to be part of a district that values equity, community, and student success. Please reach out if you have questions, need assistance, or would like to learn more about our programs.
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