What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which students develop the skills to understand and manage emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. We recognize that Social Emotional LEarning Skills are essential for learning and growing in the classroom and also for our students as they step into their future.  

In South Orange Maplewood, we have adopted the CASEL Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning framework.   According to CASEL, SEL is organized into five core competencies: 
self-awareness (understanding one’s emotions, strengths, and limits), self-management (regulating emotions, stress, and behaviors), 
social awareness (empathy and respect for diverse perspectives), 
relationship skills (communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution), and 
responsible decision-making (making ethical, safe, and constructive choices). 

These competencies are essential in schools because learning is deeply connected to emotional and social well-being — students who can manage feelings, navigate peer relationships, and cope with challenges are more engaged, better able to focus, and more resilient when facing academic or personal difficulties. Strong SEL implementation also improves school climate, reduces behavior issues, and helps students develop life skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Link video:  https://youtu.be/ouXhi_CfBVg 

CASEL’s statement on SEL and Equity 
What does the research say about SEL?