Social-emotional learning (SEL) is increasingly recognized as essential for educators, as it supports student well-being, academic achievement and positive school climates. As defined by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), SEL focuses on helping students build critical life skills that extend beyond academics.
Educators play a central role in implementing SEL by intentionally fostering skills such as emotional regulation, empathy, relationship-building and responsible decision-making within the classroom. The online Master of Science in Educational Leadership program from St. Thomas University (STU) prepares educators to lead and apply SEL practices effectively in school settings.
Creating a Positive Learning Environment
Students who develop self-awareness, self-control and interpersonal skills can thrive in school, work and life. Teachers already know that students who can manage their emotions often have interpersonal skills that mitigate physical aggression and other negative or disruptive behaviors. Not much learning can take place in an environment where students are out of control, don’t feel safe or don’t feel supported. In other words, the more students with great social and emotional skills, the better the learning environment.
Social-emotional learning programs have been shown to improve student behavior, strengthen school climate and support academic achievement. A major meta-analysis of 213 school-based SEL programs found that participation was associated with an average 11-percentile-point gain in academic achievement, along with improvements in behavior and overall student functioning. These findings highlight a strong evidence base supporting SEL as an effective approach for improving both behavioral and academic outcomes in schools.
SEL Approaches for the Classroom
SEL can be incorporated into any classroom, and any subject. That’s because social and emotional skills are highlighted and encouraged throughout the day. No matter the lesson, teachers can:
- Encourage teamwork and positive interactions with others
- Promote respect for diversity
- Model mindfulness, reflection and stress management
- Emphasize kindness and fair play
- Lead with empathy
- Provide instructions for goal setting
Some evidence-based SEL approaches for the classroom include teaching children to recognize their own feelings or how someone else may be feeling. Class meetings can be held to practice group decision-making and set classroom rules. Team sports and games help students learn cooperation and teamwork. Having older students pair up with younger students to mentor them can help with self-confidence, a sense of belonging and enhanced academic skills as well. Finally, students can learn critical listening skills with partner activities; when one partner describes a situation, the other partner repeats it back to them.
Beyond the Classroom
SEL extends well beyond academic settings, shaping how students manage emotions, build relationships and make decisions throughout their lives. Research from leading SEL organizations such as CASEL shows that these skills can have lasting effects well into adulthood, influencing long-term well-being, behavior and life outcomes.
The impact of SEL also carries into the workforce and broader society, where strong interpersonal and self-management skills are consistently valued by employers. These competencies are associated with improved career readiness and better overall life functioning, underscoring the importance of early and sustained SEL development.
Becoming an Educational Leader
Social-emotional learning continues to play a critical role in supporting student success, improving school environments and preparing students for long-term personal and academic growth. As schools place greater emphasis on student well-being and whole-child development, SEL has become an essential framework for educators and school leaders.
Educational administrators are leading the way in schoolwide SEL implementation. If you’re interested in doing the same, consider St. Thomas University’s accelerated online Master of Science in Educational Leadership degree.
Learn more about STU’s M.S. in Educational Leadership online.
