Social Emotional Learning

What is Social Emotional Learning?

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.  

Socorro Independent School District Counselor's supports social and emotional learning through:

  1. Direct skill instruction for students using evidence-based social and emotional learning curriculums

  2. Development of positive culture and school climates, and

  3. Adult social and emotional competency.  

Our SEL program uses the CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning) wheel to engage our students, families, and guardians.

The CASEL wheel highlights the five core social and emotional competencies, circled by four key settings where students live and grow.  

  • Self-awareness:  The ability to understand one's own emotions, thoughts, and values and how they influence behavior across contexts.

  • Self-management:  The ability to manage one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors effectively in different situations and to achieve goals and aspirations.

  • Social awareness:  The ability to understand the perspectives of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and contexts.

  • Relationship skills:  The ability to establish and maintain healthy and supportive relationships and to effectively navigate settings with diverse individuals and groups.

  • Responsible decision-making:  The ability to make caring and constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions across diverse situations.

Benefits of SEL

Developing SEL competencies as part of students’ regular educational experience leads to:

  • Improved academic performance and behavior

  • Improved attitude and lower stress levels

  • Increased graduation rates

  • Increased preparedness for success at college or in careers

  • Healthier relationships

  • Stronger mental health

  • Increased civic engagement

Rethink Education

SISD counselors and teachers utilize, Rethink ED a social and emotional learning (SEL) curriculum for elementary students, in every classroom. This curriculum teaches students skills for resolving conflict, working with others, forming healthy relationships, and making good decisions so that they can be more successful emotionally, socially, and academically. Learn more about Rethink Ed at their website: https://www.rethinked.com/

Resources

  • CASEL’s 5 FAQs about SEL -CASEL outlines what SEL is and why it’s important by answering 5 FAQs.

  • CASEL’s SEL for Parents Video -The video provides information about SEL in schools and insights on SEL in parenting practices in order to support children's social and emotional learning.