Center Intermediate School is planning something new for its more than 800 students, teachers and staff. Plans to convert a second floor auditorium into a new Social Emotional Learning Center are in the works and community partnerships are already helping to pave the way. “Students need to know how to manage negative behaviors, be calm and focused, follow directions, and establish and maintain positive relationships with peers,” said principal Michael Masucci. “Individuals with strong social-emotional skills are better able to cope with everyday challenges. They also benefit academically, professionally, and socially. This SEL Center will be a place to gather and foster these skills.” Decades ago, attendance issues and bullying were at the heart of most conversations about students’ social and emotional learning and mental health. Today’s students, educators, counselors and caregivers face additional issues such as anxiety, cyberbullying, depression, self-harm and even suicide. Creative ways must be developed to address current and future needs, the Boardan Local School District said.