Building Resilient Classrooms: Shanker Method Equips Educators with Self-Regulation Strategies

Friday, Jan. 31, 2025
Building Resilient Classrooms Picture 1

Reframe, recognize, reduce, reflect and restore.

These five practices lay the groundwork for a dynamic professional learning series called The Shanker Method 101, seeking to equip staff with essential tools around self-regulation to support students holistically. Stuart Shanker, a renowned expert in child development and self-regulation, created this program for administrators, educators and school staff who work closely with students to form a deeper understanding of biological, emotional, cognitive, social and prosocial stressors, and learn to create pathways to enhance resilience, learning and well-being.

"Throughout our Shanker training, staff recognized the significance of identifying student stressors and understanding their behaviours. We've learned to reframe actions, practice co-regulation and implement strategies to help students by engaging in activities that allow them to recharge emotionally," explained Jane Hirst, Vice-Principal of St. George-German School.

“To earn a micro-credit through The MEHRIT Centre and Grand Erie, staff must complete six self-directed learning modules which contain 30-45 minute training videos and 15-30 minutes of discussion and reflection. Staff reported deepening their understanding of stressors and strategies in the context of a real classroom can improve the success of all students,” stated Peter Ashe, Superintendent of Education.

"Understanding the concepts of the blue brain (calm state) versus the red brain (stress-reactive state) has underscored the importance of reducing stress to maintain a regulated environment," continued Hirst.

Over at Waterford Public School, Principal Adrianne Cunningham shared a similar experience, emphasizing the impact of reflection. "We were able to step back, take a look at our current practices and make some changes to our approach. It also allowed us to approach things as a team."

“Whole-staff learning opportunities like The Shanker Method provide a fresh perspective on student needs, providing educators a chance to learn and collaborate together. This micro-credential aligns with Grand Erie's multi-year plan to support the cognitive, social, emotional and physical needs of every learner," noted, JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education.

To learn more about Stuart Shanker, The MEHRIT Centre and its teachings, click here

More News

Building Resilient Classrooms: Shanker Method Equips Educators with Self-Regulation Strategies
Friday, Jan. 31, 2025
Wrestling Is Back in Hagersville With Alumni at the Helm
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025
News Release: A new elementary school is coming to Paris
Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025