Atlantic City Public Schools Celebrate Social Emotional Learning with Family Fest

ATLANTIC CITY -  Across the Atlantic City Public School District, something special took root this year during SEL Week, held in March that blossomed into a joyful celebration of connection, growth, and kindness that spilled over into a final event - the SEL Family Fest held at Atlantic City High School on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. La'Quetta S. Small commended the staff for making the week meaningful.

"Social Emotional Learning is not an add-on to education—it is essential to how our students grow, learn, and thrive," said Dr. Small.  "When we help our students understand their emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions, we are laying the foundation for both academic achievement and lifelong success." Throughout SEL Week, our schools created safe and supportive spaces where students could express themselves, connect with peers and staff, and strengthen critical life skills, Dr. Small said. The culminating event brought that work together, showcasing the creativity, resilience, and voices of our students, she said.

Atlantic City High School Principal Constance Days-Chapman said the SEL team worked hard to make SEL Week memorable and bring Family Fest to fruition.

"We had a phenomenal week," said Days-Chapman. "We had a job fair. We had FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) assistance for our students who are going on to college. We had fun and engaging activities for our families and our students along with dinner."

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Week shined a light on the skills that help students excel not just academically, but as people. It was a time to build awareness around the importance of understanding emotions, forming healthy relationships, and making responsible choices. Throughout the week, each elementary school embraced this mission with creativity, heart, and a shared commitment to growing together.

There was a sense of excitement in the air at each building. Students and staff engaged in a wide range of meaningful activities designed to strengthen their social and emotional skills. They painted uplifting SEL-themed pictures, went on heart scavenger hunts, dressed as gardeners, wore floral prints, and created crafts centered around seeds, flowers, and personal growth. Many schools also extended the celebration beyond the classroom by inviting families to participate in painting and craft activities, strengthening the connection between home and school and reinforcing that SEL is a shared journey.

(Chelsea Heights School celebrated SEL week with a gardener theme.)

Mindfulness practices were woven throughout the week as well. Students explored strategies to help them stay calm, focused, and present skills they can carry with them into everyday life. These moments of reflection gave students the tools to better understand and manage their emotions.

At the core of these experiences are the five competencies identified by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. These competencies help students understand themselves, build positive relationships, and make thoughtful choices that support their well-being and success.

While every activity brought smiles and excitement, the true highlight of SEL Week was the focus on growing skills for success. Each moment, whether planting a seed, creating art, practicing mindfulness, or working together, was intentionally designed to help students build lifelong skills that will support them in school and beyond.

"I want to commend our educators, counselors, staff, and community partners who continue to prioritize the whole child," Dr. Small said. "Their commitment ensures that every student in Atlantic City Public Schools is seen, heard, and supported."

SEL week was more than just a schedule of activities. By nurturing these essential skills, the school district helps students become confident, compassionate, and resilient individuals. As the week ended, one thing was clear: the seeds planted during SEL Week will continue to grow, spreading kindness, strengthening connections, and helping our entire school community flourish.

To see a gallery from SEL Family Fest and SEL Week, click the link: https://photos.app.goo.gl/KBGmExVJBVFgV8vb6

(Dr. Mitea Lakins, Teacher Coordinator Social Emotional Learning, contributed to this report.)