Renaissance Middle School’s health and physical education teacher Anthony Colon, social worker Leigh Ann Fossella, and the PTA hosted an engaging and insightful parent workshop focused on Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA) strategies. This event brought together parents and staff for an evening of learning, sharing, and support. Through open conversations, attendees discussed common parenting challenges, exchanged valuable advice, and gained practical tools to strengthen connections with their children.
In 2023, Renaissance Middle School signed on to the Developing Resiliency with Engaging Approaches to Maximize Success (DREAMS) Program which is run through a partnership between Rutgers University and the Partnership for Children of Essex (PCE). The DREAMS initiative focuses on providing trauma-informed and healing-centered supports that assist staff and students in building positive relationships and emotional self-regulation. Schools receive training on trauma-related topics such as Adverse Childhood Experiences and Trauma Informed Learning Environments, Application of Trauma Informed Practice for Educators, and Understanding the Impact of Toxic Stress and Developmental Trauma on Brain Organization and Functioning, along with others.
Training is also provided in NHA, a relationship-based method designed to help children build inner wealth, confidence, and positive behaviors. It focuses on recognizing and reinforcing a child’s positive actions, rather than giving energy to negative behaviors. By setting clear expectations, providing consistent boundaries, and celebrating successes, NHA helps parents and educators create a structured, supportive environment where children thrive emotionally and socially.
As part of Renaissance’s program, Colon received training in NHA in December of 2023. Since then, he has provided training sessions to the entire Renaissance faculty as well as the Restorative Justice Teachers on Special Assignment. Fossella serves on the NHA team. Colon said this year he made it a point to open outreach initiatives that include parents within the Renaissance community, and the response was very positive.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the workshop and am grateful for you creating the space for us to explore Nurtured Heart as parents. It was so helpful to think about what we're giving energy to and how powerful it is to shift what we acknowledge and focus on in our kids. If there is another workshop, I will look forward to attending,” said parent Maëlle Fonteneau.
“I am also piloting a student curriculum that I received training in this past February,” added Colon. “This will be rolled out on Fridays with one of our 7th grade homerooms.” The curriculum is intended to introduce students to NHA. It consists of five lessons that include an introduction to mindfulness, how perspective helps regulation and the science of happiness and gratitude. Students will have the opportunity to experience NHA through their own lenses.