SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING

School District 45, DuPage County believes that the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) of our students is a critical component to a 21st-century education. SEL skills are taught explicitly to students, as well as being infused into other areas of the curriculum.

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According to CASEL, research has shown that SEL has a wide variety of benefits for students. It supports and boosts academic achievement and provides the foundation for improved social, health and behavioral outcomes. SEL promotes key competencies through instruction and modeling and the creation of learning environments where students feel safe, cared for, and engaged in learning. District 45 has partnered with CASEL and the Du Page Regional Office of Education to provide effective SEL learning opportunities for our students.

The Illinois Learning Standards include three goals for SEL:

• Develop self-awareness and self-management skills to achieve school and success.
• Use social awareness and interpersonal skills to establish and maintain positive relationships.
• Demonstrate decision-making skills and responsible behaviors in personal, school and community contexts.

District 45 provides instruction to support SEL skills at all levels. In addition to the Second Step Curriculum, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) are in place at each school to help each student be ready to learn.

Erin’s Law

In accordance with current law, Erin’s Law presentations are held for students each year, as well as presentations by Erika’s Lighthouse for middle school students.

Health Education

During middle school, students receive Health Education with a focus on making healthy choices. Using A.C. Green’s Game Plan curriculum, students learn the importance of building on good choices to strategically set healthy life goals.