Social Emotional Learning

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. 

Benefits of Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

Research shows that children who acquire social emotional learning skills in school demonstrate:

• Improvement in academic achievement
• Increased self-esteem
• Fewer behavioral problems
• Increased ability to handle stress
• Good character and citizenship
• More positive connections with school and greater enthusiasm for learning

SEL in the Oregon School District

One of the Oregon School District’s core values is the Whole Child Emphasis: a focus on meeting academic, behavioral, social, and emotional needs of all learners. SEL is a key component to supporting the whole child. As such, the Oregon School District has two dedicated coaches focused on implementing SEL curriculum.

SEL Framework & Competencies

The Framework for Systemic Social and Emotional Learning, created by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) identifies five core competencies that, when practiced, help children navigate the world more effectively. SEL is not a single program or teaching method, but rather, involves coordinated strategies across classrooms, schools, homes, and communities.

Framework for Systemic Social and Emotional Learning