Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Teaching skills for positive relationships and mental wellness

As part of our Strategic Plan, Charlottesville City Schools is commited to providing a culture of safety, wellness, and belonging. We strive to support social, emotional, and physical wellness, foster a strong sense of community, and promote a safe and positive learning environment. Social and emotional learning programs help students acquire the skills needed to manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, set goals, and make good choices. Classroom teachers facilitate social emotional learning lessons and then reinforce skills throughout their daily and weekly routines. 

Social-Emotional Learning Resources

Our primary resources are:

• Flourish
• Zones of Regulation
• DBT Skills in Schools
• The DESSA system for assessing social-emotional competencies (Devereux Student Strengths Assessment)

Many professionals recognize five core competencies in SEL:

• self-awareness
• self-management
• social awareness
• relationship skills
• responsible decision-making

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)

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

Jodie Murphy, Mental Wellness Coordinator: 245-2652 or murphyj1@charlottesvilleschools.org