Waynesboro educator’s participation in DOE program provides kits for other teachers

Wayne Hills Preschool Center’s Amanda DePoy was among a select group of educators from across Virginia to participate in the Virginia Department of Education’s (VDOE) Kimochis Train-the-Trainer program.

The prestigious opportunity recognized her dedication to fostering emotional literacy and building social-emotional skills in young learners.

“This was such an exciting opportunity. I was honored to help bring Kimochis strategies to more educators in our division so that we can continue supporting the emotional well-being of our students,” DePoy said.

The Train-the-Trainer program, developed in partnership with the Kimochis company, prepared experienced educators to lead local Kimochis professional learning communities (PLCs) in their school divisions. As part of the initiative, DePoy received resources and training to equip 40 Waynesboro Schools staff members with tools to integrate Kimochis into classrooms, ultimately benefiting hundreds and potentially thousands of students at Wayne Hills Preschool and throughout the division.

Participation in the program also gave DePoy the opportunity to present her research and practicum project to fellow trainers and VDOE leaders. In addition to her training certification, Waynesboro Schools received 40 Kimochis kits valued at more than $4,000, provided at no cost, to support program implementation.

The Kimochis program uses engaging tools, such as the Mixed Bag of Feelings and Feelings Pillows Guide, to help children build self-awareness, empathy and healthy communication skills. The VDOE’s support of PLCs like Waynesboro’s demonstrated the impact of community collaboration in strengthening social-emotional learning across Virginia schools.