SEL in Georgetown
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process of supporting the Learner Profile within a safe and caring learning environment. SEL develops our capacity for compassionate empathy, self-management, and responsible decision-making.
DE-"Myth"-tifying SEL
What SEL IS
Facilitated Experiential Discovery
Inquiring and Constructive
Problem-Solving
Based in Neuroscience
On-Ramp for Learning
What SEL is NOT
Therapy
Critical or Judgmental
Disciplinary
"Soft"
Detour from Academics
The Three Signature Practices
This is the instructional model endorsed by CASEL. It's important to note that GISD embraces personalized learning, which could also include:
The 5 E Model
Project-Based Learning
The Workshop Model
Welcoming To Content
Opening each lesson with an intro that connects to the material ahead.
Engaging With Content
Designing experiences that provide students the opportunity to deeply digest material and contribute meaningfully. Engaging Practices are both individual and group. Teachers take on a coaching role that assists students in both coping with academic demands and working respectfully with others.
Closing the content
Close each lesson with a "take-away". What are the important things to remember about this lesson? What are the students still curious about? How is this information meaningful to their lives outside of school?
Supports For The Relational Side of SEL
Academic Mindfulness
Paying attention to the present moment
Builds teacher and student capacity for focus and emotional regulation
Environmental Supports
Classroom coping centers
Visuals to prompt use of coping skills and academic perseverance
Warm and inviting environments
Representation of EVERY student in classroom literature.
Building Strong Relationships With Families
Communication with parents in the ways that work best for them
Appreciation of a wide range of parental engagement strategies, not just in-school volunteerism
One Mission
Bring out the best in people.