Foundations of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Introduction

• Purpose: Introduce SEL 101, discuss what SEL is and how it is promoted in schools and communities.
• Audience Engagement: Participants are invited to prioritize what they want young people to learn (e.g., resiliency, compassion, empathy).

About CASEL

• CASEL Overview:
  • Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning.
  • Nonprofit, nonpartisan organization promoting SEL for 27 years.
  • Mission: Integrate SEL into education from pre-K to 12th grade.
  • Methods: Advance SEL science, practice, and policy at federal and state levels.

Understanding SEL

• Definition:
  • Process where young people and adults acquire skills to develop identities, manage emotions, achieve goals, show empathy, and make good decisions.
• Research and Outcomes:
  • SEL improves academic outcomes, behaviors, and provides long-term benefits.
  • High return on investment (11:1 ratio).

Importance of SEL in Schools

• Priorities for Implementation:
  • Academic achievement, college and career readiness, equity, mental health, civic learning.

SEL Competencies

• Five Interrelated Competencies:
  1. Self-Awareness: Understanding personal emotions, values, and mindset.
  2. Self-Management: Regulating emotions, stress, and maintaining focus.
  3. Social Awareness: Understanding others' emotions, perspectives, and social cues.
  4. Relationship Skills: Effective communication, conflict resolution, leadership.
  5. Responsible Decision-Making: Ethical choices, problem-solving, community role.

Implementing SEL in Schools

• Settings for Implementation:
  • Classrooms, schools, family partnerships, and community involvement.
• Systemic Approach: Coordinated efforts to promote SEL across all environments.

Indicators of School-Wide SEL

• 10 Key Indicators:
  • Explicit SEL instruction, integrating SEL with academics, student voice, supportive climate, adult SEL, restorative discipline, integrated support, family/community partnerships, continuous improvement.

Resources and Tools

• CASEL Resources:
  • District and School Resource Centers for SEL implementation guidance.
  • Professional learning courses and SEL assessment guides.
  • Program guides and resources for selecting SEL programs.

Adult SEL

• Importance:
  • Adult SEL impacts stress, job satisfaction, and student outcomes.
  • Professional development and community building are essential.

SEL and Mental Health

• Integration and Distinction:
  • SEL supports mental health through relationships and safe environments.
  • SEL is preventive, but not a replacement for mental health interventions.

SEL in the Community

• Partnerships:
  • Engage with out-of-school time providers and community partners.
  • Align efforts and share language and practices.

Conclusion and Q&A

• Focus on Questions: Further discussion on selecting SEL programs, assessing SEL, promoting adult SEL, and engaging families.

Note: Resources are available on CASEL's website for deeper exploration into SEL topics and implementation strategies.