Restorative Practices: "An emerging social science that studies how to strengthen relationships between individuals as well as social connections within communities. The purpose or restorative practices is to build healthy communities, increase social capital, decrease crime and antisocial behavior, repair harm and restore relationships (Reference: International Institute of Restorative Practices)." iirp.edu
A list of the written sources
Explicit SEL instruction refers to consistent opportunities for students to cultivate, practice, and reflect on social and emotional competencies in ways that are developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive.
Carol Dweck is a psychologist who researches achievement and success. Her major finding is that those who have a “growth mindset”—those who believe that their abilities are developed through dedication and hard work, not innate talent—are more likely to be resilient when things get tough and persevere to achieve goals (Dweck, 2006).
Students have a unique perspective on how high-level decisions impact the day-to-day life of the school, and their voices are critical to quality schoolwide SEL implementation. By listening to students, schools can make informed decisions about the changes that will best support all learners.
Integration of SEL and Instruction
Social and emotional competencies serve as a foundation for achieving academic goals, while academic instruction also provides a ripe opportunity for teaching and practicing SEL.
Continuously Improve Schoolwide SEL Implementation
Use the PDSA cycle to drive high-quality schoolwide SEL implementation.
Implement and reflect on data to continuously improve
The SEL team meets regularly to drive the action plan forward, reflect on new data, and continuously improve SEL implementation to meet established SEL goals and respond to needs that arise.
The CASEL Guide to Schoolwide SEL provides an intentional and collaborative implementation process. Find out where to begin.
This process helps schools create an environment that supports students in developing the academic, social, and emotional competencies that they need to navigate the world.
Share learning from this year and plan for next year
Use summative data to evaluate progress toward goals, report out on successes and challenges, reflect with staff, students, and families, and establish new or updated goals and action steps for the year to come.