As artificial intelligence and rapid technological shifts reshape the future of education and work, The Riviera Ridge School reports it is expanding its commitment to whole-child development by integrating the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence (YCEI) RULER framework directly into its signature ExSEL program to foster social and emotional growth.

Riviera Ridge School educators work together on new RULER program. (Courtesy photo)
Riviera Ridge teachers bringing EQ & IQ to the classroom with Yale RULER program. (Courtesy photo)

The initiative follows eight months of intensive professional development and preparation by Riviera Ridge faculty and leadership, the school said.

Led by Anna Forterra, school counselor; Jenny Kustura, Lower School Division head; and Mario Bucio, director of Student Wellness & DEIB+ Programs, the evidence-based framework is being initiated in JK-8 classrooms.

RULER (an acronym for Recognizing, Understanding, Labeling, Expressing, and Regulating emotions) provides students and educators with a research-backed framework to build emotional intelligence, cognitive focus, and resilience.

“Preparing students for the future requires an intentional balance where IQ and EQ naturally come together to drive academic excellence,” said Head of School Christina Broderick.

“True whole-child education means equipping students not only with a vigorous educational experience, but also with the emotional intelligence and resilience needed to apply that knowledge thoughtfully,” she said.

“Integrating RULER into our signature ExSEL program gives us an evidence-based framework to ensure our graduates are confident learners able to navigate complex challenges with confidence and perspective,” Broderick said.

At Riviera Ridge, social-emotional learning is deeply woven into daily academic life rather than treated as a standalone curriculum, the school said.

By combining academic excellence with social-emotional intelligence, the school equips students to manage academic challenges, navigate interpersonal dynamics, and develop higher-level problem-solving abilities, according to Riviera Ridge.
“Emotional intelligence creates the environment in which deep learning happens,” said Bucio. “When students are able to practice social-emotional skills on a daily basis, they are better equipped to take intellectual risks, communicate, collaborate, and engage meaningfully with their peers and community.”

“Throughout the RULER training, our teachers have shown incredible dedication, carving out time to learn, practice, and reflect on these skills,” said Jenny Kustura.

“Our faculty understands how much social and emotional learning matters for our students. Their commitment to this work is a testament to how deeply they care about creating classrooms where every child feels seen, supported, and ready to learn.”

Learn more about The Riviera Ridge School at RivieraRidge.org.