Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programs are arguably more important now than ever to support student mental health, interpersonal skill development and academic success using a universal public health approach in education. However, many schools and communities question what SEL programs are and face challenges to assess SEL program quality and alignment with local education priorities. This learning session will provide practical information about how to communicate what SEL is, including an overview of free, reputable resources that can be used to assess SEL program components and evidence. We will offer resources and facilitated discussion related to challenges communicating about SEL to equip participants with skills to lead discussions and answer questions about SEL in their communities.
Learning Objectives:
Speaker
Elizabeth Connors, PhD
Elizabeth Connors is an Assistant Professor at Yale University, Division of Prevention and Community Research and at the Child Study Center. She is also a faculty member with the University of Maryland National Center for School Mental Health, where she is the Director of Quality Improvement and a developer of The SHAPE System. Dr. Connors received her Ph.D. in Clinical Child and Community Psychology and her work focuses on improving access to high-quality mental health promotion, prevention and intervention services and supports for underserved children, adolescents, young adults and their families in critical access points such as schools and community settings.