SEL in 5 – Spring Intentions
Read this past month's digest of SEL leadership insights.
This month, we focus on sustaining SEL work, nurturing the next generation of leaders, and grassroots initiatives.
3 SEL Leadership Thoughts
Integrating social-emotional learning deeply into our educational fabric demands more than commitment—it requires a transformation. SEL isn't a mere program; it's a continuous journey of growth, powered by empathy, respect, and understanding. Like nurturing a garden, it calls for ongoing attention to practices and partnerships that embody these values.
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Embedding SEL into our daily interactions is key to nurturing tomorrow's leaders. It transforms every moment into a growth opportunity, making SEL the pulse of education. By doing so, we prepare our youth for life's challenges, equipping them with emotional intelligence, resilience, and empathy to lead with both courage and compassion.
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Launching SEL initiatives is like sowing seeds in fertile ground—it hinges on believing in the potential within every student and educator. With a foundation built on community and inclusivity, we pave a path for SEL to anchor educational practices. This grassroots strategy ensures SEL initiatives are tailored to the unique dynamics of each community, fostering enduring transformation.
2 Quotes from SEL Leaders
“… when it comes to acceleration, there is only one way forward. The accelerating factor is student interest, which is built from relationships with teachers, classmates, learning, the larger world and themselves.” – Melody Hawkins
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“Positive emotions do open the mind to new possibilities, creating flexibility and openness. But they cannot fix everything. Unpleasant emotions have a constructive function: they help narrow and focus our attention. Joy alone won’t support an educator who’s managing a bullying problem. Anger expressed in a nonthreatening way—not contentment—motivates an educator who has been treated unfairly. And many introverts among us are overwhelmed by the expectation that we must show excitement all the time.” – Marc A. Brackett
1 Question to Reflect On
What recent moments of connection and impact stand out?
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:
3 Ways Science Teaches Students Skills That Are Critical in Learning and in Life
Inquiry-Based Learning: What Happens When We Put Kids in Control of Their Learning?
It’s OK to play: How ‘play theory’ can revitalize U.S. education
Social-emotional Growth Linked to Higher Math and English Scores
Using a School Walk-Through to Assess SEL and Character Development
Want to Keep Teachers Happy? Build a Culture of Collaboration at School