Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
In addition to focusing on a strong educational foundation, District 35 emphasizes social-emotional learning (SEL) and mindfulness practices for all Kindergarten through 8th grade students.
The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) competencies provide a comprehensive framework for fostering students' emotional intelligence, empathy, and self-awareness. When combined with mindfulness techniques, these approaches can empower students with essential life skills, equipping them to navigate challenges and thrive in all aspects of their lives.
Students are given explicit instruction in the following five cognitive, affective and behavioral competencies These lessons may occur within the curriculum, through advisory and classroom meeting agendas and through special programs designed appropriately for the children in our schools.
Self-Awareness | Self-Management | Responsible Decision Making | Social Awareness | Relationship Skills |
---|---|---|---|---|
Identifying emotions |
Impulse Control |
Problem identification | Perspective-taking | Communication |
Accurate self-perception | Stress Management | Situational analysis | Empathy | Social engagement |
Recognizing strengths | Self-discipline | Problem-solving | Appreciating diversity | Building relationships |
Sense of self-confidence | Self-motivation | Evaluation | Respect for others | Working cooperatively |
Self-efficacy | Goal setting | Reflection | Resolving conflicts | |
Organizational skills | Ethical responsibility | Helping/seeking help |
In addition to the SEL competencies, District 35 partners with Knowtice to teach several mindfulness lessons throughout the year to all students. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing, meditation, and body awareness, can complement SEL by teaching students valuable coping mechanisms and stress reduction techniques. By cultivating mindfulness, students learn to live in the present moment, manage stress effectively, and develop resilience. These skills enable them to adapt to challenges, handle setbacks, and maintain their mental well-being even in the face of adversity.
SEL and Mindfulness practices create a positive school climate, enhance academic achievement, and empower students to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.
The Glencoe Schools’ Social Emotional Learning and Mindfulness programs greatly benefit from the following community organizations:
- GLENCOE PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)
- GLENCOE PUBLIC SAFETY
- FAMILY SERVICE OF GLENCOE
South School students are taught explicit Social Emotional Learning with the Second Step Curriculum. The Second Step program includes four full units (5 lessons per unit) of weekly lessons for each grade level.
Unit 1: growth mindset & goal setting
Unit 2: Emotion Management
Unit 4: Problem-solving
Second Grade Students also participate in one additional Second Step Unit: Bully Prevention. This unit teachers our students to:
- Recognize Bullying
- Reporting Bullying
- Refusing Bullying
- Bystander Power