Resiliency For Life (RFL)
The Resiliency for Life (RFL) program was founded in 1999 as an academic intervention within the Framingham Public Schools. The program’s goal is to provide students a supportive environment at school where they can feel a sense of community and build their academic and social-emotional skills. RFL aims to prepare students to achieve at or beyond grade level, graduate from high school, and be prepared for college and careers. The program places a strong emphasis on family engagement.
RFL is built on five components:
- Homeroom: The goal of the RFL homeroom is for students to connect with an adult and group of peers each day. RFL educators check in with each student individually during homeroom to touch base about their daily schedule, academic progress, general mood, and any stressors. Homeroom is an opportunity for students to start the school day in a positive direction and troubleshoot any potential challenges that might arise.
- Seminar: Led by RFL educators, the RFL seminar is intended to provide students with a focused time to build and practice their executive functioning skills, such as time management, organization, and goal setting. Seminar is required for all 9th and 10th graders (except for those who receive similar supports through the IEP process.) In the upper grades, students may participate in specialized workshops based on need.
- Afterschool: The RFL afterschool offers students a place where they can receive generalized support with homework as well as more individualized skill development. All 9th graders are required to participate in the afterschool component at least two times each week. Participation is required for students in grades 10 and up if they are receiving a grade of C or below in any core academic classes.
- Counseling: The RFL social worker is available to meet with students to address the social-emotional issues and other stressors in their lives. Some students participate in regular, individual counseling while others receive emotional support as needed.
- Family Engagement: Families are viewed as key partners in promoting student success in and out of school. RFL educators work with families from the point of referral to ensure families understand the expectations of student participation and are committed to supporting their students’ success at home. Ongoing communication and frequent events aim to maintain a strong connection.
Meet the Team