Playworks New England would like to announce Robert Frost Elementary School as the Most Valuable Partner (MVP) for October! Robert Frost Elementary School is doing innovative work to engage its students at recess and we’re thrilled to have Playworks AmeriCorps Coach Jeff Lee as part of this change-making. 
At Robert Frost Elementary School in Lawrence, Massachusetts, there has been some tremendous work happening. Principal Sarah McLaughlin has championed prioritizing play and social-emotional learning for her students, even in the time of virtual education. She has stepped in to assist in organizing Class Game Times (CGTs) for all classes and gaining feedback from staff members about curriculum improvements.
Beyond these supports and opportunities, the Frost Elementary “Paws-itive Office Referrals” incentive program has enabled community building across the school. Coach Jeff is able to recognize his students and highlight positive contributions they’re making in their virtual classrooms. This has been a great way for Coach Jeff and other Frost educators to increase the engagement levels of their students.
Despite having to get creative delivering Playworks programming while keeping students safe during the current pandemic, Coach Jeff still finds his daily interactions to be the most exciting part of his job. “The best part of my workday is anytime I’m interacting with students,” he says. “I always make sure I have my wifi ready to go and as soon as it’s time for class game time, I join the virtual classroom and get started.”
Coach Jeff also gave some best practices when coaching in this new virtual world. “I think one of the best contributing factors to my CGTs is my attitude and enthusiasm mixed with a little bit of theatrics,” he says. “I get super into the games I’m playing, and when teachers are actively participating it makes for much better engagement.”
With the help of Coach Jeff and his supportive community at Robert Frost Elementary School, children in Lawrence are able to have access to safe and healthy play. A giant whoosh clap for Coach Jeff and the active and caring educators at Robert Frost Elementary School!
