The "Core Curriculum"
Social Emotional Learning 
A strong Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) program is a major focus of many schools in the DC Metro area. The SEL curriculum varies from school to school and is also age relevant.

We have visited schools with great SEL programs and thought it would be helpful to share what we've learned about the Social Emotional Learning curriculum. 

-Leigh Ann, Cathy, Mary, Catherine, and Lena

Events

October 19, 2018
6:00 pm

GMU Johnson Center Cinema
4400 University Dr.
Fairfax, VA 22030






Resource Fair: 2018 CHADD DMV Regional ADHD Awareness Month Resource Fair

October 20, 2018
8:00 am - 1:00pm

BASIS Independent McLean 8000 Jones Branch Road, McLean, VA 22102







October 24, 2018
7:30 pm

The Lab School 
4759 Reservoir Road NW
Washington, DC 20007


Stay Connected
Social emotional learning (SEL) is a critical piece in a child's education and development. This approach focuses on a child's ability to identify and manage emotions, build relationships, and develop empathy. Why is it important for schools to have a strong social emotional learning program? According to The Atlantic, studies found an 11 percentile gain in academic achievement and an $11 benefit for every $1 spent on an effective SEL program. There are many schools in the Washington DC metro area that have successfully implemented this approach. In this newsletter, we will explore how to evaluate effective programs and which schools integrate social emotional learning into their curriculums. 
Checklist for a Successful Social Emotional Learning Program
According to a SEL article by The Harvard Graduate School Of Education, the key program components include:
  • Social emotional activities and lessons outside of the core curriculum 
  • School wide policies and events that build positive social emotional skills 
    • Such as school wide assemblies and projects
  • Activities in the community 
    • Such as community service projects and volunteer opportunities
  • Social emotional materials to use outside of normal school hours
  • Resources for children of all needs (such as English Language Learners and children with special learning needs)
  • Professional development and ongoing training for educators
  • Evaluational tools to assess implementation and outcomes

Schools that Focus on Social Emotional Learning 
Responsive Classroom is one of the many SEL programs that connects academics and social emotional development. Click on the schools below to learn more about how they include Responsive Classroom into their classrooms: Schools implementing other SEL programs include:

Social Emotional Learning Activities
218 N. Lee Street, Suite 323
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-671-8316      Fax: 703-997-8438
Email: edconsulting@independentschooloptions.com