Wellbeing

From Shaun, Wellbeing

The Berry Street Education Model at NMPS

Over the past year and a half, NMPS has proudly implemented the Berry Street Education Model (BSEM) to support the wellbeing, engagement, and learning of every student. This evidence-based approach was designed to help schools better support students who have experienced adversity, trauma, or stress—but its benefits extend to all learners.

BSEM focuses on five key areas: Body, Relationship, Stamina, Engagement, and Character. These domains help teachers create safe, predictable learning environments while also building students’ emotional regulation, resilience, and academic confidence.

At NMPS, all classes begin each day with a Morning Circle, a BSEM strategy that fosters connection, emotional check-ins, and a sense of community. This simple daily routine helps students feel seen, heard, and settled—ready to begin their learning with focus and calm. In addition, we have implemented consistent, predictable routines in all classrooms across the school. These routines help students feel safe and reduce anxiety by creating a clear and reliable structure. When students know what to expect, they can better manage their emotions and stay engaged in their learning.

Through these practices—along with brain breaks, co-regulation techniques, and strength-based learning—NMPS staff are committed to supporting the whole child. We’ve already seen how BSEM helps students feel more connected, confident, and ready to learn, and we will continue to embed these strategies to ensure every learner feels safe, valued, and supported every day.