3 SEL Leadership Thoughts
The most effective SEL programs are not just add-ons to the curriculum; they are woven into the fabric of the school culture. This integration requires a shared vision among educators, students, and parents. It's not just about teaching skills; it's about creating an environment where those skills can be practiced and honed daily.
—
In the realm of social-emotional learning, assessment should be a tool for growth, not a measure of deficiency. We should be asking, "How can we better support you?" instead of "What's wrong with you?" This shift in perspective can make all the difference in how students and educators engage with the SEL process.
—
Building resilience in students is not a solo endeavor; it's a community effort. It requires educators to not only teach coping skills but also to model them. It involves parents reinforcing these skills at home. And it necessitates school leaders creating policies that support a resilient school culture.
2 Quotes from SEL Leaders
“The culturally responsive educator assumes the role of ‘warm demander of students’ cognitive development,’ where knowing students well is coupled with apprentice-like supports, not over-scaffolding.” – Zaretta Hammond
—
“When it comes to youth mental health and wellness, you can think of primary prevention as sort of the physical health parallel to, ‘eat your fruit and vegetables.’ From my lens, I’m looking for primary prevention inclusive of skill-building that supports relationship skills, emotional management, goal setting, and problem-solving.” – Jordan Posamentier
1 Question to Reflect On
How might we leverage emerging tools (such as AI) to better support educators and students?
—
If you enjoyed that, please consider sharing SEL in 5 with others.
Until next month,
Nick Woolf
Author of SEL in 5
Founder of Inside SEL
p.s. here’s what else I’m reading and listening to: