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Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
Teaching skills for positive relationships and mental wellness
We think of schools teaching the “three Rs,” but Charlottesville City Schools is also committed to a fourth R — relationships. Our counselors teach social and emotional skills when they visit classrooms, work with small groups or individuals, host clubs, and organize activities. Since 2015, we have also begun adding social-emotional learning (SEL) to our regular classroom curriculum to teach specific behaviors, such as the ability to recognize and regulate emotions. We recognize that social and emotional skills are a key element of mental wellness.
Social-Emotional Learning Resources
Our primary resources are:
- RethinkED
- Second Step
- Zones of Regulation
- DBT Skills in Schools
- The DESSA system for assessing social-emotional competencies (Devereux Student Strengths Assessment)
- Trauma-responsive practices
- Wildrock ecotherapy park and our City Schoolyard Gardens
Many professionals recognize five core competencies in SEL:
- self-awareness
- self-management
- social awareness
- relationship skills
- responsible decision-making
SEL Connections
Social-emotional learning and mental health are part of a broader commitment to wellness in Charlottesville City Schools as supported by our Wellness Policy and our Strategic Plan.
This includes:
- encouraging physical wellness
- creating systems of supports at our schools to promote positive behavior, academic success, and mental wellness
- establishing trauma-responsive practices
- fostering a positive school culture and community
- empowering our school counselors and Student Services staff such as social workers and psychologists
- promoting safety
An overview of wellness programs in Charlottesville City Schools can be found here.
SEL Resources for Families
Social-emotional learning begins at home! Thanks for partnering with us for the growth and success of your child!
- Free family resources compiled by CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning)
- Free family resources developed by rethink ED