Introducing Second Step® at Wilkinsburg School District

At Wilkinsburg, we want every student to thrive not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well. That's why we're excited to begin Second Step® Elementary, a research-based program that helps students develop important skills for school and life.

Second Step® focuses on four key areas:

  • Growth Mindset & Goal-Setting: Students learn how to focus, manage distractions, develop a growth mindset, and set goals for both social and academic success.
  • Emotion Management: Students practice identifying and labeling emotions, using strategies to manage strong feelings, and, for older students, stress-management techniques.
  • Empathy & Kindness: Students learn to recognize and act kindly, understand others’ perspectives, and appreciate empathy as a key part of building positive relationships.
  • Problem-Solving: Students use the STEP process to handle challenges:
    • S: Say the problem
    • T: Think of the solutions
    • E: Explore the outcomes
    • P: Pick a solution

We are proud to offer programs like Second Step® to support the whole child, creating a safe, supportive, and caring school community.

For questions about the program, please contact your child’s teacher or the school office.