Promoting SEL in the Middle and High School Years

This brief from Pennsylvania State University reviews the current landscape of universal school-based programs designed to promote social and emotional growth in middle and high school students through skill-focused programs, academic integration, teaching practices, and organizational reform.

TAGS middle school grades high school grades evidence-based programs

What does SEL look like in elementary, middle, and high school?

This curated list of articles and videos illustrate what SEL looks like in elementary, middle, and high school settings. Explore these links to deepen your knowledge and find grade-differentiated resources for professional learning and planning.

TAGS middle school grades high school grades elementary school grades

SEL in Middle School Social Studies

Document describing ways middle grades social studies teachers can support each of the 5 SEL domains through specific lessons & activities and more general teaching practices.

TAGS SEL and Academic Integration social studies lesson planning social awareness self awareness self management relationship skills responsible decision making middle school grades instructional practices

Washoe County School District 3 Year Implementation Plan – Middle School

A flow chart from Washoe County School District illustrating the process of schoolwide SEL development over 3 years, with roles for district staff, principal, and SEL Leadership Team members.

TAGS implementation plan middle school grades

Washoe County SEL Standards – Language for Primary Grades

Washoe County School District adapted their SEL standards to make them more accessible in early childhood settings.

TAGS SEL standards elementary school grades

Case Study: Anchorage Public Schools Process for Developing SEL Standards

SEL standards and a description of Anchorage's process of developing them, piloting their use, and bringing them to scale district-wide.

TAGS SEL standards board policies implementation plan middle school grades high school grades elementary school grades PK-12 planning

Case Study: Austin Independent School District Process for Developing SEL Standards

SEL standards from Austin and contextual information on how they are used and measured.

TAGS SEL standards board policies middle school grades high school grades elementary school grades PK-12

Inside Chicago Public Schools: SEL at Marcus Garvey Elementary (video)

Video featuring Marcus Garvey Elementary, a K-8 school in Chicago that has been using SEL schoolwide for many years. Includes interviews with a student and teachers at 3 grade levels.

TAGS videos model SEL schools middle school grades elementary school grades communications culture and climate building buy-in for SEL youth voice

A Case for School Connectedness

Short article from Educational Leadership describing the impact of strong school connectedness on academic achievement, behavior, absenteeism, and school completion, as well as and practices that enhance it.

TAGS bullying prevention mental health journal article relationship skills research brief advisory/homeroom middle school grades high school grades culture and climate building community integrate with district priorities

Illinois SEL Standards and Tools

The State of Illinois's webpage with SEL standards by grade band and related resources.

TAGS school board SEL standards board policies toolkit middle school grades high school grades elementary school grades PK-12