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In this heartfelt episode of Fostering Futures with CAHELP, host Athena Cordero is joined by Scott Heitman, Executive Director of Special Services at Oro Grande School District, for an honest and insightful conversation about Social Emotional Learning (SEL). Together, they work to demystify what SEL really means moving it out of binders and buzzwords and into everyday human connection.

Scott shares real stories from his time as a teacher, principal, and district leader that show how simple acts of kindness, presence, and genuine care can build meaningful relationships with students and staff. From greeting students by name to listening without judgment, this episode highlights practical, low-barrier strategies that educators can try tomorrow. It’s a reminder that SEL isn’t an “extra” it’s the foundation of student success.

🔑 Highlights & Takeaways:

• What SEL actually looks like in practice
• Why being “nice” is powerful, not soft
• How student voice can transform school culture
• The importance of supporting staff SEL needs too

This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone committed to creating school environments where kids are seen as people first and where learning begins with connection.

Acronym Note: During this episode, several acronyms were used without full explanation. To support listener understanding, we’ve included a list of acronyms and their meanings below.

• CWA (Child Welfare and Attendance)
• TK  (Transitional Kindergarten)
• Maslow before Bloom (Educational philosophy emphasizing that a student’s basic needs, must be addressed before they can effectively engage with and benefit from higher-level learning)
• ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences)
• SEL (Social Emotional Learning)
• ASB (Associate Student Body)
• SB (Student Body)
• Rosebud Thorn (Reflection or feedback technique where participants identify the positive aspects (roses), potential areas for growth (buds), and challenges or negative aspects (thorns) of a project, experience, or situation.)
• Hattie’s Effect Size (John Hattie Research, Visible Learning)

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