Congratulations to Carrie White, a second grade teacher at Yates Elementary School who was named a 2022-2023 “Second Step Educator of the Year.” White is one of eight educators nationwide, the only one in New York, to be selected for the top award.
Second Step is a research-based social-emotional learning (SEL) program for students in grades Pre-K through grade 8, that helps students build valuable life skills that nurture positive relationships, manage emotions and set goals so they can thrive. The program was developed by Committee for Children, a global nonprofit working in partnership with educators and families. Second Step programs are used in 45,000 schools across the country.
According to Second Step, nominations were judged by a panel of Committee for Children staff. The judging criteria included impact, innovation, generalization, and learner-centered approach.
White was nominated by Robert Flanders, principal of Yates School. His nomination highlighted the “remarkable impact” White has had within the Yates school community by creating effective and innovative opportunities for SEL. The notification to White states, “Through your efforts, you’ve demonstrated a positive effect on student SEL, classroom culture, and school climate, and we commend your incredible work.”
White will receive a $500 honorarium and a digital badge symbolizing exceptional dedication to SEL. She will be featured in public-facing content on Second Step’s website and in videos. “Your inspiring story will undoubtedly motivate educators worldwide and further promote the importance of SEL in education,” was stated in the letter of congratulations from Second Step.
Second Step will celebrate the winners at the Educator Showcase, a live event scheduled for August 22
White, who has been a teacher at Yates for more than 15 years, was named the Schenectady Teacher of the Year in 2022. At the time, she received accolades and overwhelming support, and gratitude from parents, students (present and former), and colleagues.