There are so many benefits to SEL in schools, especially in a school district such as ours where students constantly encounter people who are very different than they are. Our students interact every day with different identities, religions, cultures, races, and abilities. Having to the tools and skills to not only navigate one's own feelings, but also knowing how to appreciate and interact with others are truly building blocks for success, as proven in the article. I wasn't so surprised by the successful gains the students achieved because they had purpose and buy in to their learning. The article said that even the lower 20% gains are still worthwhile, and I totally agree.
I think about our teenage/high school students specifically who are at times very reactive and impulsive in situations, sometimes only thinking about how they feel in that moment, rather than the big picture. If they had more targetted instruction on being more aware of their selves, and then how to interact with others, even in disgreement, they might be able to take a step back and weigh outcomes. On top of this, when students are more engaged in class and trust that they are supported and appreciated in school, they will be able to see how positive relationships can keep them engaged and see school as a worthwhile place.
I think about our teenage/high school students specifically who are at times very reactive and impulsive in situations, sometimes only thinking about how they feel in that moment, rather than the big picture. If they had more targetted instruction on being more aware of their selves, and then how to interact with others, even in disgreement, they might be able to take a step back and weigh outcomes. On top of this, when students are more engaged in class and trust that they are supported and appreciated in school, they will be able to see how positive relationships can keep them engaged and see school as a worthwhile place.