With classroom doors set to swing wide open across the CNMI Public School System, emotional skills will help school students start their year on the right foot, according to Eden Mercado, a high school teacher at Marianas High School.
Mercado was the MHS School Level Teacher of the Year for 2021-2022. She is also a recipient of the 21st Century Educator Award.
At MHS she will be teaching Algebra 2 College Preparatory Math.
Mercado says a strong link exists between emotional skills and school success.
“Emotional skills such as self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and effective communication can help students manage stress, navigate social interactions, and focus on their studies, ultimately contributing to their success in school and beyond,” Mercado says.
Mercado says ideally, children should enter school with a positive emotional state characterized by curiosity, enthusiasm, and confidence.
Mercado says parenting style goes a long way towards developing this emotional state, which in turn contributes to a good first day of the school year.
“Actively listen to [children’s] worries and address them with empathy, helping to alleviate any back-to-school jitters,” she says. “By fostering a supportive environment, you empower your child to approach the new school year with confidence and enthusiasm.”
Mercado likewise says consistency is the key to student success.
“Setting a consistent daily routine at home will also ease the transition, ensuring sufficient sleep, balanced meals, and dedicated study time,” she says.
Teachers, of course, will be critical to the emotional support of their students, Mercado says.
She supports organizing icebreakers, encouraging peer interactions, and “promoting a sense of belonging” at the start of the year.
“Pay attention to each student’s individual needs, and be approachable for any concerns they may have. Incorporate interactive and creative teaching methods to reignite their love for learning, while also allowing for open discussions about their summer experiences. By nurturing a positive classroom environment, you lay the foundation for a successful and fulfilling academic journey ahead,” Mercado shares.
Eden Mercado, 2021-2022 School Level Teacher of the Year
