Social Emotional Learning
By Mary Hall
September 25, 2008
Imagine a School Where.....
STUDENTS solve their own conflicts on the playground and the playing field, feel safe enough to discuss concerns and problems with teachers and classmates, share ideas for school improvement with their principal, and are never afraid to go into the bathrooms or ride on the bus where adults are not present.
The PRINCIPAL knows and greets students by name, visits classrooms regularly, encourages teachers to lead staff meetings, and has an open-door policy for staff members, parents, and even students.
TEACHERS feel valued, share in decision-making, work collaboratively on projects, and treat students and each other with respect.
PARENTS feel welcomed and encouraged to participate in school activities, and parents, teachers, administrators, and students trust one another.
In the HALLWAYS and CAFETERIA students are calm and orderly, student art work is displayed prominently, bullying is virtually nonexistent, and referrals to the office are rare.
(Excerpt from CASEL: Sustainable Schoolwide Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) –Elizabeth Devaney et al)
SOUND UNREALISTIC???
This is reality for schools across the state of Illinois that have introduced Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into their educational curriculum; thus, creating a safe, caring, and engaging school atmosphere where students look forward to attending daily.
What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?
Social and emotional learning is the process of acquiring the skills to recognize and manage emotions, develop caring and concern for others, establish positive relationships, make responsible decisions and handle challenging situations effectively.
It is the intent and mission of Central School District #104 to implement Social Emotional Learning district-wide enhancing academics and fostering the social emotional development of our students. We, the faculty of Central School District 104 believe in the lifelong success SEL will provide for all of our students.
