Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Social and emotional learning is not just a method or stand alone curriculum lesson, social and emotional learning is embedded into all learning.

SEL becomes a habit of practice when students, adults, and the entire school community remember that we use our SEL skills all day long, not just for a 30 minute block of time once or twice a week. Research has shown that social and emotional development can be fostered, and social and emotional skills, attitudes, and behaviors can be taught using a variety of approaches. (CASEL)

The Fairbanks School District achieves SEL by using the following approaches:

• Explicit SEL Skills Instruction
• Integration with Academic Curriculum Areas
• Organizational, Culture, and Climate Strategies

 Direct Instruction Programs:

• PBIS
• CHAMPS
• Zones of Regulation
• Kagan Strategies
• Second Step
• 4th R

The district uses the Collaborative Academic for Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL) framework for SEL implementation. CASEL is the leading researcher and knowledge base for social and emotional learning with over 20 years of experience. The CASEL framework infuses social and emotional learning from classroom instruction, to schoolwide climate and practices, to community and home. SEL skills are more likely to be achieved by learners when taught using a variety of methods in a variety of settings. The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District partners with caregivers and community partners to strengthen student opportunities for practicing social and emotional learning skills to improve student outcomes.