SEL, but make it actionable: 4 proven ways to refine your school's program & get real results
Not all social-emotional learning routines are created equal.
While any action taken to support whole child well-being is commendable, many K-12 school districts are building on the traditional curriculum model to ensure that learning is connected to students'. The result: increased implementation quality and fidelity, with measurable impact on student SEL growth.
In other words, there is a growing difference between actionable programs that prioritize student voice and personalize support, and plug-and-play lessons that put SEL on autopilot.
“We often hear that curriculum alone isn’t enough to support student needs in this space,” said Rupa Gupta, CEO and co-founder of Sown To Grow. “To see the greatest growth in students’ social, emotional, and academic well-being, SEL practices should be aligned with curriculum, incorporated into everyday instruction, and embedded within school culture.”
As an organization whose beliefs are based on student-centered, reflective, and data-driven application, Sown To Grow partners with educators across the country to make SEL more actionable and impactful.
Interested in scaling these efforts in your own district? Read on to learn from leaders who are refining the ecosystem of student support to create safer, more positive school environments.
What makes SEL more actionable?
Although SEL's educational debut was three decades ago, it took many years to gain the traction it deserves. Today, those making the most measurable progress on social-emotional competencies and student well-being are evolving the practice to meet the diverse needs of their district, and incorporating these four characteristics:
- Intention and equity
In order to ensure every student feels valued and supported, regardless of background or circumstance, SEL should be conducted in inclusive environments where diverse perspectives are recognized. This helps students develop empathy, self-awareness, and collaboration skills. By addressing individual needs and reducing systemic inequities, intentional SEL equips every student with the tools to thrive academically and emotionally.
- Where it’s working & why: Lancaster School District (CA) – Hear from Sam Yuom, Director of Student and Family Programs
- Student voice
Incorporating opportunities for every student to feel seen and heard is another essential for a thriving SEL program, which can also be reinforced with Multi-Tiered Systems of Support. When all voices are welcome, students are empowered to take ownership of their learning, and feel valued in the process. This also fosters a sense of agency, builds confidence, and ensures relevance to students’ experiences and needs. By genuinely listening, educators can create more meaningful and engaging SEL experiences that resonate with all learners.
- Where it’s working & why: Metro Nashville Public Schools (TN) – Hear from Ashford Hughes Sr. Chief of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
- Artifacts of growth
To provide the most dynamic and impactful SEL, it’s important to establish a system that tracks achievements and identifies areas for continued growth. Tangible evidence of students' progress helps them recognize and celebrate their development over time. These artifacts, like weekly check-in data, journals or portfolios, also promote self-reflection and reinforce key SEL skills like goal-setting and resilience.
- Where it’s working & why: Hamilton County Schools (TN) – Hear from Dr. Caitlyn Steward, Coordinator of Community Schools
- Proactive support and targeted resources
One of the biggest ways educators see growth in their SEL programs is by modifying reactive approaches to address challenges before they escalate. Proactively offering tools and resources tailored to students’ unique needs improves well-being for every child, and it also helps schools foster the most supportive environment where all learners can thrive. Strong Tier 1 structures that aim to understand and act on student needs can mitigate the number of situations that require Tier 2 & 3 interventions.
- Where it’s working & why: Harford County Public Schools (MD) – Hear from Bernard Hennigan, Executive Director of Student Support Services
The results of a revamped approach
Establishing SEL systems that achieve measurable progress isn’t an easy task, but shifting your school or district’s strategy to incorporate these four criteria is well worth the effort. By graduating SEL from a box check-ed to an actionable priority, schools will be better equipped to meet students' holistic needs, and foster environments where every learner thrives.
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See how Sown To Grow can help your school's SEL program address challenges, track progress, and build a culture of belonging. 🌱 Click below to connect! 🌱
