Cranford Public School District
Social Emotional Learning Calendar
2025-2026
WELCOME!
In Cranford Public Schools, every day is SEL Day… ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment for all!
While these themes are highlighted in special weeks throughout the year, they remain at the heart of our daily interactions and learning goals within our school communities.
This is a living document, that will be updated with flyers, information, and celebrations from each school.
We appreciate your support!
First Day of School!
September’s Full Value Principle: BE HERE
As we begin a new school year, we are encouraging students and families to embrace the importance of being present - not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
Whether it's showing up ready to learn, actively listening to others, or being engaged in our school community, being present helps us build stronger connections and reach our full potential.
We look forward to seeing you at our Back to School Nights - your presence makes a difference!
First Day of School!
October’s Full Value Principle - CARE FOR SELF AND OTHERS
When we take care of ourselves through healthy choices, positive relationships, and managing our emotions we are better prepared to care for others. Showing kindness, respect, and standing up for what’s right helps create a safe, welcoming environment for all.
Together, through our words, actions, and choices, we can create a school where everyone feels supported, secure and valued in our schools, in our community, and online.
World Mental Health Day
November’s Full Value Principle - BE HONEST
Honesty builds trust, strengthens relationships, and helps us grow as individuals and as a school community. Being honest means speaking the truth, owning our actions, and doing the right thing, even when it's not easy.
November is also a time to reflect on gratitude and kindness, both of which are closely connected to honesty. When we are truthful and genuine with ourselves and others, we show respect and care. Together, let’s create a community where honesty, gratitude, and kindness guide the way.
Month of Gratitude
World Kindness Day
No School
NJ Teachers Convention
No School
Thanksgiving Recess
National Children’s Grief Awareness Day
Conflict vs. Bullying Family Academy @ BPS
December’s Full Value Principle - BE SAFE
As we head into the holiday season, our focus for December is the important principle of Be Safe. Being safe means more than just physical safety. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels protected, respected, and included.
This month brings many traditions, celebrations, in addition to new opportunities to come together as a community. It’s also a reminder that when we look out for ourselves and each other - in our words, actions, and choices - we help ensure that everyone can enjoy a safe, welcoming space to learn and celebrate.
Let’s make December a month where kindness, inclusivity, and safety are part of every classroom, hallway, and gathering.
Winter Break
December 24, 2025 - January 2, 2026
NPFH Pledge/ Activity 1 due Friday 12/12
January’s Full Value Principle - SET GOALS
The start of a new year is the perfect time to focus on our next principle: Set Goals. Setting goals helps us look ahead with purpose, stay motivated, and take positive steps toward becoming our best selves.
January is also a time to reflect on how our words and actions shape the world around us. We hope to encourage everyone to set personal goals for spreading kindness and respect at school, at home, and in our community.
No Name Calling Week
No School
Dr. MLK
Jr. Day
February’s Full Value Principle - CARE FOR SELF AND OTHERS
This February, we are focusing on how we can Care for Self and Others in simple but powerful ways. One way to care for others is through Random Acts of Kindness — small, thoughtful actions that help make someone's day a little brighter. A kind word, a helping hand, or a smile can go a long way toward building a positive school community and establishing healthy relationships.
Just as important is how we treat ourselves. This month, we encourage students to practice positive self-talk and focus on a healthy body image. How we speak to ourselves matters. Let's remind ourselves that we are capable, unique, and worthy of care and kindness, inside and out.
Family Academy: Healthy Relationships
NPFH Activity 2 Deadline
March’s Full Value Principle - BE SAFE
Feeling safe starts with knowing we belong and that our voices matter. Every voice has the power to make a difference. Upstanders who say something when they notice a friend in need can help and prevent dangerous situations.
Each month thus far, and the remainder of the year, we celebrate the skills that help us manage emotions, solve problems, and build strong connections.
Spring Break
Screenagers: Family Academy
at OAS
NPFH Activity 3 Deadline
Cranford SEL DAY
April’s Full Value Principle - BE HERE
As we return from Spring Break, we remind ourselves to be present to finish the school year strong! When we show up, we make a difference.
Through our commitment to No Place for Hate, we remind ourselves that every person belongs and that hateful words or actions have no place in our classrooms, hallways, or community. Being present means noticing when someone needs a friend, standing up for what’s right, and choosing kindness every day.
Let’s all Be Here: ready to learn, ready to listen, and ready to make our school a place where everyone feels they belong.
NPFH Activity 3 Deadline
May’s Full Value Principle: SET GOALS
As the school year begins to wind down, May gives us the perfect opportunity to reflect and refocus. There is still time to achieve the goals set at the beginning of the year, and having a positive mindset and managing stress help us approach these moments intentionally.
We should always be prioritizing our well-being and mental health by taking care of both our bodies and minds. Checking in with ourselves mentally, emotionally and physically supports our success in every area of life.
June’s Full Value Principle: LET GO AND MOVE ON
This month, we focus on releasing what no longer serves us and looking forward with optimism and confidence. This growth mindset helps us learn from challenges and use every experience as a step forward. When we let go of mistakes or frustrations, we open the door to new possibilities and continued success.
This month is a time of empowerment and optimism for all. Using all of our SEL competencies and Full Value Principles, we are prepared to move forward with a positive attitude, identity, and belief in our abilities.
Pride Month