Early Lessons from Schools and Out-of-School Time Programs Implementing Social and Emotional Learning
The COVID-19 pandemic, along with the national racial justice movement, has highlighted the need to address the social and emotional well-being of young people, many of whom are suffering from anxiety, trauma, and loss of connection with peers and caring adults
RAND has conducted a new study with interest in narrowing the gap of applying social and emotional learning (SEL) related programs and practices in schools.
Early Lessons from Schools and Out-of-School Time Programs Implementing Social and Emotional Learning suggests that districts and out-of-school-time programs that are planning on implementing SEL need to consider:
- Focusing on developing a set of social-emotional skills of both students and adults
- Defining those skills and planning the needed supports from school districts and OST intermediary organizations
- Developing a common language for SEL that can build shared understanding of the terminology among school and OST staffers
- Setting aside staff time for clear and frequent communication
- Documenting and formalizing SEL routines and practices