Out-of-school time: "A supervised program that young people regularly attend when school is not in session. This can include before- and after- school programs on a school campus or facilities such as academic programs (e.g., reading or math focused programs), specialty programs (e.g., sports teams, STEM, arts enrichment), and multipurpose programs that provide an array of activities (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)." https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/ost.htm
The CASEL Guide to Schoolwide SEL provides an intentional and collaborative implementation process. Find out where to begin.
Integrating SEL into Staff and Grade-Level Meetings
SEL practices help improve collaboration and can be embedded into any meeting where staff comes together to help build collaboration. Practices may include intentional opportunities to connect personally, interact in meaningful ways, share appreciations, or take time for reflection.
Expand adult learning through structures such as professional learning communities and mentoring opportunities.
A Supportive Classroom Environment
A supportive and equitable environment in all classrooms serves as a platform for all academic, social and emotional learning. At the core of a supportive classroom is a caring, engaging teacher who establishes authentic trusting relationships with each student.
Develop a coordinated approach for supporting students’ social and emotional learning across the school, classrooms, homes, and communities.
When each staff member models social awareness by expressing their appreciation for their peers’ efforts, a culture of appreciation is created.
Belonging and Emotional Safety
When teachers build the structures that support belonging and emotional safety, they lay the groundwork for students to focus on learning (Sergiovanni, 1994 in Darling-Hammond et al., 2017).
This process helps schools create an environment that supports students in developing the academic, social, and emotional competencies that they need to navigate the world.
Support staff in modeling SEL competencies, mindsets, and skills throughout the school community.
Align schoolwide systems, policies, programs, and practices to promote SEL for students.