Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) Supports

At P.S. 83 Luis Muñoz Rivera, we care deeply about how students feel, not just how they perform.

We focus on social-emotional learning (SEL) so that children can build confidence, manage emotions, solve problems, and form healthy relationships in school and beyond.

SEL is a core part of New York State’s expectations for schools and is linked to better academics, stronger relationships, and safer, calmer classrooms.

Social-emotional learning is the process through which young people and adults learn skills like understanding their feelings, setting goals, making caring decisions, and building positive relationships.

Research shows that when schools integrate SEL into daily routines, students are more engaged, more successful, and experience less stress and anxiety.

SEL also supports equity by helping schools create caring, inclusive environments for every child and family.

Students at P.S. 83 learn social-emotional skills throughout the day, not only during a single lesson.

Teachers use age-appropriate activities such as morning meetings, read-alouds, partner work, and conflict-resolution routines to help students practice communication, empathy, and problem-solving.

As a New York City public school, P.S. 83 also receives SEL supports and training so that our classrooms are safe, caring, and affirming places to learn.

When students need more support, they can connect with the school counselor, social worker, or other trusted adults.

Our school is one of the few elementary schools in East Harlem with a Mount Sinai School-Based Health Center that offers medical and mental health services right in the building, at no cost to families. This partnership allows students to receive counseling and wellness support during the school day when needed.

Families are vital partners in supporting children’s social and emotional growth.

We encourage parents and caregivers to reach out whenever they have concerns about their child’s behavior, emotions, friendships, or stress.

City agencies and community organizations recommend that families and schools work together on SEL by providing opportunities for children to practice skills at home, involving them in community activities, and staying in close communication with the school.

At P.S. 83, our Parent Coordinator, Ms. Jenny Cardena, serves as a bridge between home and school. Families can contact her at 212-860-5847 ext. 1072 or JCardena@schools.nyc.gov for help connecting with resources, understanding school expectations, and accessing workshops or events related to social-emotional learning and wellness. Her office is located in the main office, and she is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

We know that staff well-being and professional learning are essential to strong social-emotional support for students.

New York City Public Schools provides training, curricula, and resources for teachers and school leaders to integrate SEL into classroom instruction and to build restorative, relationship-centered practices. These supports include elementary SEL curricula, professional learning on combining academics with SEL, and initiatives that help staff create safe, caring, and affirming learning environments.

P.S. 83 staff also work closely with community partners and the Mt. Sinai School-Based Health Center to coordinate services and share strategies for supporting students and families.

Teachers and support staff meet regularly to discuss student needs, adjust strategies, and ensure that every child has supportive relationships in school.

Sometimes students, families, or staff may need more help than school alone can provide.

New York City’s mental health resources, including the 988 helpline and local support services, are available around the clock to offer confidential counseling, crisis support, and referrals.

NYC Public Schools encourages families and staff to use these resources when they or their children need additional emotional support or are facing a crisis.

As a community school, P.S. 83 also works with partners such as City Year to bring mentoring, enrichment, and social-emotional supports into the school day.

Our Community School Director, listed on the school’s official profile, collaborates with school leadership and staff to coordinate these services and make sure they align with student and family needs.

If you have any questions/concerns, please reach out to Ms. Nicole.

Phone: 718-912-5627 (Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM-  4:00 PM)

Email: NCardinali2@schools.nyc.gov 

If you have any questions/concerns, please reach out to Mr. Brent.

Phone: 646-685-3322 (Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM)

Email: byoung20@schools.nyc.gov

If you have questions about your child’s social or emotional well-being, or if you would like support as a family, please reach out to:
• Main Office: 212-860-5847
• Parent Coordinator: Ms. Jenny Cardena, 212-860-5847 ext. 1072, JCardena@schools.nyc.gov
• Mt. Sinai School-Based Health Center: 212-860-6395

Families who are considering enrolling at P.S. 83 are warmly invited to contact the school to learn more about our social-emotional supports, visit the building, or speak with staff.

We are proud to offer a small, caring school community in East Harlem where every child is known by name, supported by a team of adults, and encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

September 2025: Our Class Is A Family by Shannon Olsen

October 2025: Ruby Finds a Worry by Tom Percival 

November 2025: Even Superheroes Have Bad Days by Shelly Becker

December 2025: What If Everybody Did That? by Ellen Javernick

January 2026: What Should Danny Do? School Day By Adir & Ganit Levy

February 2026: Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun by Maria Dismondy

March 2026: Rulers of the Playground by Joseph Kuefler

April 2026: A Home for Gully by Jo Clegg

May 2026: Ruthie and the Not So Teeny Tiny Lie by Laura Rankin