At Windsor Public Schools, our mission is to develop the genius in every child and build lifelong learners. That mission extends beyond academics—it includes nurturing emotional intelligence, resilience, and confidence. This week’s #ThankfulThursday celebrates two outstanding SEL Specialists who are doing just that: Melani Gutierrez at Windsor High School and Damion Morgan at Clover Street School.
🧘🏾♀️Melani Gutierrez: Fostering Confidence and Connection at WHS
As an SEL Specialist and SSC (Student Support Center) Coordinator at Windsor High School, Melani Gutierrez is a compassionate guide for students navigating the emotional highs and lows of adolescence. Whether helping a student recognize their self-worth, reflect on personal growth, or practice healthy coping skills, Melani creates a space where every young person feels seen, safe, and supported.
Her work aligns beautifully with our Instructional Core Wheel, particularly in building self-awareness, emotional regulation, and positive relationship skills. By helping students understand themselves better, Melani empowers them to take charge of their learning, their mental well-being, and their future.
🧘🏾♂️ Damion Morgan: Teaching Emotional Resilience at Clover Street
At Clover Street, Damion Morgan is a trusted mentor and role model for students of all ages. As an SEL Specialist, Damion helps children build emotional vocabulary, recognize their strengths, and grow into confident, capable learners. His warm and steady presence supports not just behavior and routines, but the heart of what makes students feel ready to learn.
Through morning check-ins, mindfulness activities, and restorative practices, Damion is shaping a generation of students who can name their emotions, bounce back from challenges, and care for themselves and others. His work represents the social-emotional core of our district’s approach to whole-child education.
Melani and Damion are daily reminders that SEL is not an “extra”—it’s essential. When students learn to know themselves, believe in their potential, and regulate their emotions, they are empowered to thrive academically and personally. These two educators are doing the heart work that builds lifelong learners from the inside out.
👏🏽 Join us in celebrating Melani Gutierrez and Damion Morgan for their unwavering dedication to the emotional growth and development of our students.