BCD’s Middle School Advisory program incorporates Ripple, a research-based social-emotional learning program from One Trusted Adult designed specifically for students in Grades 5–8. Ripple helps students strengthen their understanding of themselves, build healthy relationships, develop a sense of belonging, and recognize the positive impact they can have on their community.
Through age-appropriate journals, conversations, reflection, games, and collaborative activities, students explore topics such as personal strengths, wellness, friendships, communication, goal setting, decision-making, leadership, and community. As students progress through Middle School, the program encourages increasing independence, self-awareness, responsibility, and reflection.
An important part of Ripple—and of BCD’s Advisory program—is connection. Students have regular opportunities to connect with a trusted faculty advisor and with their peers in a small-group setting. Advisors participate alongside students, helping create a space where students feel known, supported, and comfortable asking for help when they need it.
Ripple is intentionally flexible and low-tech, allowing Advisory to remain responsive to the needs of each group. Some weeks may center on a journal activity or structured SEL lesson, while others may include conversation, team-building, problem-solving, or reflection on something happening within the school community. Each student has their own journal so classes can take place both indoors and outdoors.
Together, these experiences help students develop the social-emotional skills, relationships, confidence, and sense of responsibility they need to navigate Middle School and become thoughtful, engaged members of the BCD community.
