Dean of Students (SEL)

Dear SRMS Families,

I am excited to introduce myself as the new Dean of Students for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) at Scotts Ridge Middle School. Many of you may already know me, as I have had the joy of teaching Science here for the past 16 years. In this new role, I will continue to support our students’ growth by focusing on their social and emotional well-being, alongside their academic success.

I bring to this role a deep commitment to education and leadership. With over 15 years of experience as a teacher, curriculum writer, and building leader, I have served on multiple district committees focused on connections, belonging, social-emotional behavioral supports, and safety. I have also had the privilege of coordinating advisory and SEL programs, implementing Yale’s RULER framework, and guiding Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). My background as an educator, leader, and coach has shaped my belief that students thrive when they feel seen, valued, connected and supported.

My work will center on the five CASEL competencies, which provide students with lifelong skills for success. Through self-awareness, students learn to recognize their emotions, strengths, and values; with self-management, they gain strategies to handle feelings and work toward their goals. Social awareness fosters empathy and respect for others, while relationship skills help them build healthy friendships and resolve conflicts. Finally, responsible decision-making guides students in making safe, caring, and fair choices that benefit themselves and their community.

In addition to strengthening these competencies, a key part of my role will involve restorative practices and behavioral support. I will help students understand the impact of their choices, repair harm when it occurs, and turn conflicts into learning opportunities. Working within our 6–8 handbook guidelines, I will address behavioral challenges, provide consequences when necessary, and for students who need additional support, create personalized plans to help them grow socially and emotionally. I will collaborate with teachers, families, and staff to provide targeted supports, create positive classroom environments, and share strategies that can be reinforced at home. My goal is to ensure that every student feels safe, connected, valued, and empowered to thrive in our school community.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve our school community in this new way and to continue building relationships with families I’ve come to know over the years. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—I look forward to working together to help our students grow with confidence, kindness, and resilience.

Warmly,

Kelly Hall
SEL Dean of Students