Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

Two students hugging At WSD, we know that high-quality Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programming leads to long-term improvements in students’ skills, attitudes, prosocial behavior and academic performance! That’s why SEL is incorporated into our professional development, teaching and learning and classroom/extra-curricular activities across the district.

Monthly SELebrations

Each month, our schools incorporate lessons and activities that support SEL skills (self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision making). Highlights of our monthly themes, listed below, are shared via our e-newsletters, this dedicated webpage, and social media.

September: Belongingness
October – Wiss Pride
November – Gratitude
December – Giving Back
January – Goal Setting
February – Relationships/Empathy
March – Self-Awareness
April – Wellness & Stress Management
May – Teamwork/Collaboration
June – Reflection

What is SEL?

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.

What are SEL Skills?

Self-awareness – recognizing one's emotions and values as well as one's strengths and challenges
Self-management – managing emotions and behaviors to achieve one's goals
Social awareness – showing understanding and empathy for others
Relationship skills – forming positive relationships, working in teams and dealing effectively with conflict
Making responsible decisions – making ethical, constructive choices about personal and social behavior