Scott Valley Junior High School, a California Distinguished School, prioritizes developing independent learners, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens. ThinkGive is proud to partner with SVJH to bring impactful social and emotional learning (SEL) programming to their students. We asked educators and students to reflect on the impact of ThinkGive. Here’s what they shared.
Educator: Hillary Plank
Grade: 6
Location: Fort Jones, CA
Began partnership with ThinkGive: 2024
Impact of ThinkGive on Students: “Learning about inclusion profoundly impacted my students. They came to appreciate each other’s differences and understand that rather than standing in our own corners, we can stand together.”
Highlights of the ThinkGive Experience: “Gratitude is one of the foundations of joy. It was impactful to teach students that even when things are really rough, or they’re having an off day, they can use gratitude as a tool—whether by reviewing a gratitude list or simply asking themselves, ‘What can I be thankful for?'”
Survey Results: After participating in ThinkGive, students reported significant improvements in their social and emotional skills:
87% reported being kinder to others.
86% said they were more caring when someone was hurt or upset.
88% felt more connected with their family.
Student Voices: Here’s what some students had to say about their ThinkGive experience:
“I loved ThinkGive because it made me treat myself better and be more grateful.”
“ThinkGive taught me to be kinder to others because you never know what they are going through outside of school.”
“I learned how to be a better friend.”
Minna Kim, ThinkGive Program Coordinator, shared her reflections on the partnership:
“Scott Valley Junior High stands out because of its mighty commitment to its small community. Ben, last year’s ThinkGive facilitator, and Hillary, this year’s facilitator, both grew up in Scott Valley and now work at SVJH. They’ve shared how their rural community has a lot of heart and a strong sense of belonging. At the same time, communities like Scott Valley are often overlooked and disproportionately affected by funding cuts and resource limitations. We are grateful to have brought ThinkGive to such thoughtful and deserving partners.”
Scott Valley Junior High School is a recipient of the SEL for Every Child Fund, which provides full funding to implement ThinkGive’s SEL programming. If your school/organization serves a majority of under-resourced youth and lacks funding for SEL initiatives, find out if you qualify at thinkgiveproject.org/fund.
