After an extremely challenging and disrupted school year, governments are increasingly recognizing necessity and benefits of prioritizing social emotional learning in the classroom. Three states recently enacted new legislation around SEL practices, standards, and training.
Indiana
IN SB0205 will set new standards for teacher training programs, mandating that programs consider training teachers in evidence-based social emotional learning practices. Teachers will also complete mandatory youth suicide awareness and prevention training. The bill was signed by Gov. Eric Holcomb on Apr. 22.
Here’s how MTW can help: In addition to implementation training and ongoing coaching calls, we offer Enrichment Workshops to improve teacher’s use of MTW in the classroom, as well as educator wellness experiences professional development series to deepen educators’ capacity for SEL. Learn more here.
New Jersey
NJ S2485, signed into law by Gov. Phil Murphy on May 11, establishes the Clayton Model Pilot Program for K–5 SEL programs in select New Jersey public schools. The trauma-informed SEL program showed success on implementation in Clayton School District and this bill will expand the program across the state.
Here’s how MTW can help: Trauma-informed practices are core to our PreK-12 programs. In addition to bringing in experts to contribute to and review our curriculum, we’ve created a helpful guide to help you build equitable, safe, and supportive schools through trauma and culturally sensitive practices.
Washington
On May 5, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee enacted WA SB5044, a bill tasked with increasing cultural competency and dismantling institutional racism in public schools. The law provides guidance for new state standards on antiracist and cultural competence training, disproportionate student outcomes, as well as the integration of SEL curriculum.
Here’s how MTW can help: SEL isn’t just for students! Adults not only need support to build capacity for this work, but the core competencies of social emotional learning deepen educators’ cultural competency, empathy, self-awareness, and more. Our PreK-12 programs are designed so that educators can participate along with their students. Explore our programs here.
As more states continue to adopt standards and regulations to prioritize social emotional learning, our team is here to support students, educators, and families every step of the way.
For more information about what to expect from our 2021-22 curriculum, download our PreK-12 curriculum guide using the form below.
