What is Social and Emotional Learning, and why is it important?
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process through which students acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. At Fort Worth Academy, social and emotional learning is incorporated into the curriculum at every grade level with age-appropriate lessons.
Social and emotional learning helps Fort Worth Academy students to:
- Develop a sense of belonging
- Enhance empathy
- Reduce anxiety
- Regulate strong emotions
- Improve problem-solving skills
- Improve collaboration with peers
- Increase resiliency
- Improve self-confidence
- Develop a growth mindset
- Promote better learning environments
- Find academic success
Social and Emotional Learning at Fort Worth Academy Lower School:
- Teacher-directed lessons emphasizing character traits and social skills
- Monthly character lessons from guest speakers
- Weekly cross-grade seminar
- Complex learning experiences, such as the E.L.I. Emporium
Social and Emotional Learning at Fort Worth Academy Middle School:
- Cross-grade mentorship lessons
- All-middle school grade weekly seminar
- Lessons from "Project Wayfinder"
- Multi-grade level P.B.L. opportunities
- "Common Sense Media" approach to social media and entertainment
- Use of "Action for Happiness" principles
