What is an SEL Framework?
Developing an SEL framework is important, but first, what is it? Your SEL framework is the guideline by which you teach your social and emotional skills. Think of your framework as boundaries. SEL has become very controversial. You will want clear guidelines for what your school is teaching.
A strong SEL framework will guide what is being taught in the classroom. It gives teachers a frame of reference when they are creating lessons. An SEL framework also gives the community a guideline for what is being taught in your school.
Developing an SEL Framework
Your school will want to develop an SEL framework that reflects what is important to them. We encourage you to look at some examples of SEL Frameworks.
CASEL has developed CASEL 5 framework, which includes self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
The Mind Trek SEL Program also has a framework that includes self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, and mindset skills. You might also want to add pillars that include character development or career readiness.
Once you have picked the pillars that are most important to your school, you will want to define and flush out those pillars. For example, what does social awareness mean for your school, and what will you be teaching? Your focus group can help you start the process.
Developing an SEL Framework with Community Buy-In
I encourage you to utilize your advisory council when developing your SEL framework. One process would be to educate your council on SEL and what a framework is. Share with them some sample frameworks.
Then allow them to share pillars that they think are important. I encourage you to take the pillars they have suggested and put them to a vote. You will want the data from your council to determine the pillars that are most important for your school.
At a follow-up meeting, utilize your council to define what each pillar means for your school. Next, fill in the framework with how you will teach these skills to students.
Share your framework with your community once it is complete to gain community buy-in. The community is skeptical about SEL at the moment. Be transparent! Post your framework on your website and share it with your families.
SEL Unfiltered
Do you want to hear more? Check out the rest of our series on Creating and Implementing an SEL Program on our SEL Unfiltered podcast, wherever you stream your podcasts.
Check out other episodes in our Implementing an SEL Program, including The Benefits of SEL, Creating an Advisory Period, Creating an Advisory Council, Choosing an SEL Program, and Initial Implementation of an SEL Program.
Game of the Week
Every week on SEL Unfiltered, we like to bring you a game or activity. You can use the game with your students, in the classroom, or in a small group. This week Kaitlin and I played a game of Top Three.
Top Three is a simple activity you can use with students to start class. It can also be played as a brain break or to start groups.
The concept is simple. You pick the category. The students list their top three. For example, movies, songs, foods, places to go on vacation, things they can’t live without, or dream jobs.
This game allows students to build relationships with one another by learning more about each other. It is also a great opportunity for students to share things they enjoy.
