Student Support
Social Emotional Learning
Recognizing the significant disruptions caused by COVID-19, we are prioritizing students’ social emotional development and overall well-being in all of our structures and scenarios. Reunite, Renew, and Thrive: Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Roadmap for Reopening School (CASEL, 2020) was used as a guide to inform recommendations for school reopening. The four SEL critical practices are as follows:
SEL Critical Practice 1: Take time to cultivate and deepen relationships, build partnerships, and plan for SEL.
Foster new relationships that elevate student and family voice.
Use two-way communication strategies.
Examine the impact of SEL efforts.
Build a broad coalition and integrate SEL into your plans.
SEL Critical Practice 2: Design opportunities where adults can connect, heal, and build their capacity to support students.
Allow space for communication, listening, and healing among adults.
Ensure access to mental health and trauma support.
Identify opportunities for innoncation and anti-racist practices.
Provide embedded professional learning.
SEL Critical Practice 3: Create safe, supportive, and equitable learning environments that promote all students’ social and emotional development.
Build adult-student and peer relationships.
Weave in opportunities for SEL practice and reflection.
Implement a comprehensive system of supports.
Discuss the impact of pandemic and racial inequity.
Collaborate with family and partners.
SEL Critical Practice 4: Use data as an opportunity to share power, deepen relationships, and continuously improve support for students, families, and staff.
Elevate student voice in reflection and action on data.
Support educators in reflecting on instruction and environment.
Partner with families and community members to improve experience and outcomes.