Using Signature Strategies

Prioritize

• Which aspect of SEL needs to be addressed with students and adults at this moment in time? 

• How is SEL prioritized within the instructional day?

Align with a Clear Purpose

• What is the larger purpose of using the chosen strategy and/or practice? 

• What explicit instruction is needed to build a particular social-emotional skill? 

• In what ways does the chosen strategy support explicit and integrated SEL instruction?

Keep Relationships in Mind: 

• What is the relationship between the SEL skills that need to be developed and the students’ ability to have a deep understanding of their learning? 

• How does a focus on SEL facilitate relationships between students and between students and staff?

Empathize with Students: 

• What needs to be understood about each student in order to effectively develop students’ social-emotional skills? 

• What cultural stories and experiences do students add to the classroom community? 

• How may cultural responsiveness be employed to better empathize with and understand the connection between students’ learning and their lived culture? 

  • Visit the Culturally Responsive Practices Stockpile to learn more.