Whole Child Development at BFS
At Busan Foreign School, developing the whole child is central to our mission. This year, BFS is proud to introduce Wayfinder, a social-emotional learning (SEL) program created at Stanford University’s d.school (Design School). Wayfinder helps students cultivate purpose, empathy, and connection—skills essential for navigating an increasingly complex and fast-changing world.
Connecting Wayfinder to BFS SHARK Values
The program reinforces and embodies our BFS SHARK Values—Socially Conscious, Hardworking, Active Communicator, Respectful, and Kind—by guiding students to reflect on who they are, how they relate to others, and how they can contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Implementing Wayfinder Across Grade Levels
Wayfinder will be implemented throughout our weekly Advisory Program in the Middle and High School, as well as in individual elementary classrooms from Kindergarten through Grade 5. Through engaging, age-appropriate lessons and activities, students explore themes such as identity, relationships, decision-making, and resilience.
Bullying Prevention Lesson: Choosing Inclusion
During this month’s Bullying Prevention lesson, our school counselor, Ms. Singley, guided students through an imaginative social inclusion activity using the new Wayfinder SEL program. Students imagined that Martians had landed on Earth with very specific ideas about who could stay and who had to leave—based on jobs like farmers, presidents, and veterinarians.
Through this creative scenario, students were surprised by a plot twist: they had the power to stand up to the Martians and choose inclusion, welcoming everyone regardless of background, identity, or job. The activity sparked lively discussion and helped students see how even small actions can create a kinder, more inclusive community.
“The best part was watching students realize that kindness is a superpower,” said Ms. Singley. “Even in a game about Martians, they saw that they can stand up for others and make a difference.”
Counselor Leadership and Family Support
The Wayfinder program is led by Ms. Singley, BFS Social Counselor, who serves as a valuable resource for both students and parents. As children and teens navigate the social and emotional challenges of growing up in today’s digital age, she provides guidance, support, and practical tools to help them thrive with confidence and compassion.
Commitment to Academic and Emotional Growth
By integrating Wayfinder across all grade levels, BFS continues its commitment to fostering both academic excellence and emotional intelligence—empowering students to live out our SHARK Values every day.
