Mary Gorman

“Our hope, with the help of the 2020 SEL in Action Award, is to create a movement within our community, “Together we Grow, Juntos Crecemos,” celebrating our bilingual roots. Within the name, the grow refers to the growth of community, the growth of leadership and capacity within our parents and families, and the growth of our physical learning spaces. Our approach is two pronged. First, a monthly “New Families Circle,” where families—both new and those established in Kensington—can come together to share resources and engage in dialogue and build relationships. Second, a monthly meeting to design and organize our Community Beautification Project. This will be a multiyear initiative, growing from a community mural, to an indoor green space, and finally an outdoor classroom. The project will transition from teacher-led to parent-led. Ultimately, we envision active learning spaces where students, teachers and families take ownership and pride.”