In this post we’re thrilled to feature Leslie S. Leff, a School Adjustment Counselor at New Hingham Regional Elementary School in Massachusetts. Leslie brings a wealth of passion and experience to her role particularly in fostering social skills such as deep listening and perspective-taking through Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). In this interview she shares how joining the Narrative 4 National Schools Network has enriched her work with students and expanded the possibilities for connection and collaboration—both in and beyond the classroom.
Interviewer: What is your name, job role and school name?
Leslie: My name is Leslie S. Leff. I’m a School Adjustment Counselor at New Hingham Regional Elementary School.
Interviewer: Why did you apply to the program?
Leslie: I’ve always enjoyed the Story Exchanges and workshops I’ve participated in through Narrative 4. I teach Social and Emotional Learning to students in Kindergarten through 6th grade and many of the core values and skills I hope to instill—specifically empathy, deep listening and perspective-taking—align beautifully with Narrative 4’s mission.
Believing in the power of stories as essential tools for teaching and learning I’ve incorporated parts of the N4 curriculum into my classes. One of my long-held dreams has been to help my students connect meaningfully with children from different backgrounds. When I learned about the Narrative 4 National Schools Network I saw it as a wonderful opportunity to connect with educators across the country—and perhaps even realize that dream.
Earlier this year I facilitated a Story Exchange with my faculty. Given the enthusiastic response I felt it would be a great next step for our school to join the network.
Interviewer: What benefits has the program brought to your work with students?
Leslie: The program has expanded my own imagination and sense of possibility. The curricular resources that Narrative 4 offers have been incredibly inspiring. For example I recently facilitated a Perspective-Taking Story Exchange with my third-grade class. It was amazing to watch their imaginations open up—and to witness their growing ability to see the world through others’ eyes.
I’ve also really appreciated the support and warmth of the N4 staff as well as the opportunity to connect with educators from across the country.
Interviewer: Would you recommend other schools apply?
L: Absolutely! It opens up a world of possibilities!
Interviewer: Thank you for this. Do you have any other comments?
Leslie: During this time of upheaval and uncertainty in our country and the world I cannot overstate the importance of engaging in activities that help us—and our students—develop greater empathy and understanding of others’ experiences.
Narrative 4 plays a unique, powerful and much-needed role in healing what is broken and highlighting what is beautiful in our world. I’m grateful and proud to be a part of the N4 community.
We’re proud to have Leslie and New Hingham Regional Elementary School as part of our growing network, and we hope her journey inspires others to explore what’s possible through the power of story.
You can apply to our upcoming cohort of the Narrative 4 National Schools Network here:
Deadline: Aug-08-2025
