Social and Emotional Learning Pillars: The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) states “social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.” The WPCSD focuses on the following Tier 1 SEL competencies as identified through the Leader in Me, advisory activities, Freshman Achievement, and Senior Achievement. These competencies should be highlighted and interwoven throughout all content, classes, interactions, and schools.
Be proactive. I’m in charge. I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods. I do not blame others for my actions. I make good, responsible choices without being asked, even when no one is looking.
Begin with the end in mind. I have a plan. I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school’s mission and vision. I look for ways to be a good citizen.
Put first things first. I work first, then play. I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.
Think win-win. Everyone can win! I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. I make deposits in others’ emotional bank accounts. When conflicts arise, I look for third alternatives.
Seek first to understand, then to be understood. I listen before I talk. I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting. I am confident in voicing my ideas. I look people in the eyes when talking.
Synergize. Together is better. I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different than me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people’s ideas to solve problems because I know that by teaming with others we can create better solutions than anyone of us can alone. I am humble.
Sharpen the saw. Balance feels best. I take care of my body by eating right, exercising and getting sleep. I spend time with family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school. I find meaningful ways to help others.
Show empathy with action. I can recognize and feel the emotions of others. I am able to view a situation or experience from another’s perspective. Empathy alone too often fails to spur action. I act on empathy by expressing kindness and consideration towards others.
Be honest yet kind. Truth without grace destroys. Grace without truth deceives. The sweet spot is graceful truth.
Display gratitude. I show appreciation and thankfulness through my actions and words.
Honor initiative. I can act in a positive and productive manner without being required, monitored, or graded.
Reflect. I can think deeply and carefully about my learning, my experiences, and my actions. I can also think deeply about others’ experiences.
Exhibit resilience. I keep trying, even when things are hard. I can cope with issues that arise, change when needed, recover from adversity, and show personal growth.