10 Must-Have Features in a SEL Solution

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is crucial because it equips individuals, especially students, with vital life skills such as self-awareness, empathy, and conflict resolution. These skills enhance emotional well-being, foster positive relationships, and prepare individuals to navigate challenges, ultimately promoting success in school, work, and life.

A SEL (Social and Emotional Learning) solution is designed to support the development of students' social and emotional skills. These skills are crucial for success in school and life. 

When evaluating a SEL solution, here are ten must-have features to consider:

1.  Alignment With CASEL

A solution should align with and facilitate the development of the CASEL core competencies of self awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision making for students and adults.

2.  Alignment with Core Standards

A solution should align with academic instruction, specifically Core Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics.

3.  Customizable

The content and materials CAN be modified and adjusted to meet unique student
needs.

4.  Engaging Content

Engaging and interactive content will facilitate the development and integration of skills and behaviors that equip students with “the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.“

5.  Educator Resources and Support

A solution should supports educators to integrate lessons and materials into daily classroom activities, stand-alone or embedded into core instructional programs.

6.  Equity 

A solution should approach SEL instruction through a lens of equity and in a way that is strengths-based and culturally responsive.  It should facilitate and foster the development of equity overall, and racial equity specifically, in classroom relationships, processes, and results.

7.  Supports the Five Core SEL competencies

The solution must provide a means to systemically assess the development and growth
of the five core SEL competencies in students, and provide for measures of curriculum
effectiveness. The SEL five core competencies:

1. 1. self-awareness
   2. self-management
   3. social awareness
   4. relationship skills
   5. responsible decision-making.

8.  Analytics,  Reporting and Tracking

Analytical tools that provide insights into students' emotional and social growth, allowing educators to make data-driven decisions and track the impact of SEL programs. 

A system for tracking individual and group progress in SEL skills over time, making it easier to identify areas that need further attention.

9.  Multi-Platform Accessibility

Compatibility with various devices and platforms, including web browsers, tablets, and smartphones, to ensure flexibility in accessing SEL content and support for users with disabilities, ensuring that all students, regardless of their abilities, can benefit from the SEL program.

10.  Data Security and Privacy: Given the sensitive nature of SEL data, it's important to have robust data security and privacy measures in place.

Selecting a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) solution for your school or organization is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration. Here's a summary of the key steps and criteria to guide you through the selection process:

Identify Your Needs and Goals:

• Determine your specific SEL objectives and goals.
• Understand the unique needs of your students and educators.

Involve Stakeholders:

• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, parents, and students to gather input and feedback on SEL priorities.

• Research available SEL solutions in the market.

Remember that the selection process should be guided by your specific needs and the unique characteristics of your school or organization. Regularly assess the impact of the SEL solution on students' social and emotional development and make adjustments as needed to achieve your goals.