SEL in EDU

Stepping into the season of rejuvenation, we're thrilled to welcome Dr. Chaunte Garrett, the dynamic mind behind EmpowHer Ed, onto our podcast. This episode blooms with Dr. Garrett's insights on social and emotional learning and its crucial role in fostering equitable academic landscapes. Imagine every young mind accessing the learning they need, not just academically but emotionally, and the societal fabric becomes more vibrant through SEL integration, interwoven with threads of gender, race, and body perception.

Authenticity and integrity take center stage in our dialogue. Discover how these core values shape the very essence of leadership, especially for those who may identify as introverts, and how individuality shines within the tapestry of collaboration. We open up about self-care, a passage of rest, boundary-setting, and spiritual nourishment that balances the scales of service. Dr. Garrett's wisdom on preserving authenticity and stewardship paints a serene landscape for the soul, a calm amidst the storm of guiding others.

Join us on a transformative journey of continuous growth as we hear about the Garrett Collective and embrace the fluidity that leadership demands. Dr. Garrett imparts her invaluable 'gems' of wisdom, underscoring the central theme of our episode – the emancipating power of choice and the significance of unwavering commitment to one's values in the intricate dance of leadership. As you listen to this episode, carry these words with you on your own path: growth is a voyage, not a destination, and within it lies a wealth of support and love, waiting to be embraced.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

• Connect with Dr. Garrett via her website, X. and Instagram.
• Read her ASCD articles and other publications via LinkTree.

When you meet a mentor like Thom Stecher, who shapes your world through social and emotional learning, you can't help but share their wisdom far and wide. That's precisely what we're doing in this heartwarming episode, as Thom joins us to discuss the profound effects of nurturing the whole child and fostering a compassionate atmosphere in schools. We explore the landscape of education, where courage intertwines with kindness, and delve into how these virtues impact the lives we touch and our personal growth.

Our conversation delves into the power of self-awareness, the significance of disconnecting from the chaos of life to nurture our inner value, and the potency of small acts of kindness. Thom's insights prompt us to reconsider the true significance of self-worth in the age of social media. As we ponder on the necessity of self-compassion and the inherent worth of every individual, we also underscore the bravery needed for advocacy and community building, making each listener feel valued and appreciated.

Finally, we celebrate love's role in creating and sustaining relationships. Thom shares personal stories from his 45-year partnership, reminding us that the superpower of love drives change and fosters connections, especially within educational environments. Join our enriching discussion, savoring the nuggets of wisdom and encouraging you to keep the flame of curiosity alight in your heart. Together, let's celebrate the profound influence of connection over metrics in our schools and lives.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

• Connect with Thom via his website.

Discover what it means to harness the transformative power of social and emotional learning (SEL) in personal well-being and racial equity in education. Our conversation with Kelisa Wing, a trailblazer in advocating for justice and inclusion, unpacks the redefined competencies of SEL laid out by CASEL. Together, we navigate the intricate connections between hope, resilience, and empathy, especially amidst the challenges that people of color face in leadership roles. Kelisa, inspired by Dr. Cornel West, sheds light on the philosophy of being a 'prisoner of hope,' a poignant reflection as we examine the landscape of educational well-being and the influence of adult SEL on future generations.

We delve into self-love, authenticity, and nurturing deep connections with others, even in passing encounters, and how these moments can lead to unity and understanding. We confront the complexities of gender and racial biases, particularly in the scrutiny placed on leaders and scholars. The discussions pave the way for contemplating marginalized individuals' pressures in authoritative positions and the imperative of fostering an equitable environment for all.

In the final stretch of our episode, we grapple with the current state of higher education and the mounting battles against DEI initiatives. We stand in solidarity with those at the front lines, defending the principles of free thought and empathy against legislative onslaughts. Reflecting on the historical contexts of resistance and empowerment, we rekindle the flame of hope and the potential for positive change. As we close this chapter of our dialogue with Kelisa, we invite our listeners to embrace joy in the minutiae, stand firm in the face of adversity, and take away from our discussion an enriched sense of purpose and humanity.

Episode Resourcesces:
Connect with Kelisa via her website and Instagram
Read Kelisa’s books:

• Racial Justice in America series
• Conversations
• Weeds & Seeds: How to Stay Positive in the Midst of Life’s Storms
• Promises and Possibilities: Dismantling the School to Prison Pipeline
• If I Could: Lessons for Navigating an Unjust World
• Becoming a Globally Competent Teacher as a contributing author

Imagine the profound impact a single educator can have, not just on a classroom but on an entire community. De'Shawn Washington, fourth-grade inclusion teacher and Massachusetts Teacher of the Year for 2024, joins us to share his transformative educational philosophy integrating social and emotional learning with academic success. His approach has shaped students into compassionate change-makers, fostering a classroom environment where trust and accountability are as fundamental as the ABCs. De'Shawn's passion for empowering students resonates throughout our conversation as he reflects on the significance of his achievements and the inspiration he provides as the first black male to receive this prestigious honor in Massachusetts.

Our discussion takes an inspiring turn, highlighting the indispensable role of black male educators in the Massachusetts educational system, representing less than 2% of the teacher population. De'Shawn sheds light on the notable increase in student performance when children are taught by black men, emphasizing their presence as essential at every level of education. De'Shawn illustrates how educators can cultivate culturally inclusive classrooms through heartfelt anecdotes about mentorship and community building. We also delve into his innovative classroom strategies, ranging from restorative practices to adopting an alligator as a class mascot, all aimed at enhancing the joy and connectedness among his students.

To our listeners, we issue a rallying cry to champion educators like De'Shawn, who are at the vanguard of nurturing social and emotional growth. We remind you to kindle your commitment to education, and we eagerly anticipate the following conversation that promises to enlighten and inspire.

EPISODE RESOURCES:
Connect with De’Shawn via his website, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Check out these resources shared by De’Shawn:

• How Empowered Black Educators Feel Seen, Heard, and Valued in the Teacher Evaluation Process
• The Inclusion of Race - A Holistic Examination: How an Absence of Race is an Absence of Culture
• Division for Emotional and Behavioral Health newsletter

Embrace the spirit of new beginnings with the wisdom of Allison Rodman, author of "Still Learning: Strengthening Professional and Organizational Capacity." She guides us through realigning education paths to combat burnout and stay true to our calling, blending personal growth with professional development. This episode promises to illuminate the congruence between our deepest purposes and everyday practices, a crucial harmony for educators striving to maintain their passion in adversity.

Imagine a classroom where growth isn't solely for the students but equally for the teachers, where setting meaningful goals transforms not just individual educators but entire teams. Through a heartfelt discussion on collective efficacy and the transformative power of reflection, we uncover strategies to protect our time and encourage self-care, ensuring a balanced journey through the demanding world of education. "Filtering with fences" emerges as a method to preserve our dedication to the craft without compromising our well-being. Join us as we share resources and practices that enable us to "stand strong in the SEL light."

EPISODE RESOURCES:

• Connect with Allie on her Website, X,  Instagram, and Facebook
• Purchase her book Still Learning and read her ASCD articles.

Uncover the heartbeat of social and emotional learning (SEL) as we celebrate International Women's Day and SEL Day, where our panelists, including Dr. Chaunte Garrett, Heather Lageman, Dr. Leigh Alley, Maureen Chapman, James Simons, and Dr. Damion Lewis, unwrap the gift of SEL in education. We engage in stories that underscore the influence of remarkable women and the power of nurturing connections that make for a robust learning environment. Their journeys reveal the impactful ways SEL can be woven into the fabric of educational experiences, radiating joy and hope.

This episode is a treasure trove of strategies and insights into creating communities that thrive on strong relationships and resilience. We discuss the concept of "Square Squads," a group of trusted individuals who support our growth and delve into practical tools like the Emotions Wheel and "You Matter Manifesto," designed to foster self-reflection and fortitude among educators and learners alike. Our conversations illuminate the daily "SEL hacks" that families can adopt, and we explore how simple, mindful practices can catalyze positive change in educational settings and with families and communities.

As we wrap up this invigorating dialogue, the journey of SEL in education takes center stage, highlighting its indispensable role in today's learning landscapes. We discuss the need for collaboration and understanding the diverse pathways to success, from advocacy for children to integrating SEL in workplaces. Inspired by Andra Day's "Rise Up," we leave with a rallying cry for perseverance and hope, urging our listeners to be the torchbearers of love, truth, and liberation in their communities.

PODCAST HOSTS:

• Craig Aarons-Martin - CEO, CCM Educational Group
• Dr. Krista Leh - Chief Education Officer, Resonance Educational Consulting

SEL PANEL GUESTS:

• Dr. Leigh Alley - Former Executive Director, Maine ASCD; Assistant Professor of Education, University of Maine at Augusta
• Maureen Chapman - Co-Director, cor creative partners
• Dr. Chaunte Garrett - CEO, ELLE Education Services 
• Heather Lageman - Executive Director, Maryland ASCD
• Dr. Damion Lewis - LewLearns-Professional Learning & Education Consulting 
• James Simons - Co-Director, cor creative partners

EPISODE RESOURCES:

• Youniversity - Joy Drop
• Brene Brown - Square Squad
• Choose2Matter - Manifesto
• CNVC- Feelings inventory
• Marc Brackett - Mood Meter 
• Yale University - RULER tools
• ASCD Webinar - Reclamining the Mantel of SEL 

Have you ever stepped into a nurturing space that felt like a sanctuary? Join us as Nikolas Tsamoutalidis, an SEL practitioner with an impressive track record in student support, walks us through the life-changing initiatives of the Wellness Center at Bethlehem Area High School in Southeastern Pennsylvania. His dedication to trauma-informed education and creating systems that enable students to thrive is nothing short of inspirational. Together, we uncover the transformative programs that support academic excellence and cultivate resilience, trust, and emotional safety among students.

Imagine a school where students are greeted with hope and love with every interaction. Through compelling conversations with Niko, we bring light to the impressive data that showcases an increase in students' hope and academic performance, with an astounding 97% able to trust an adult within the school. These are not just numbers; they represent real lives touched by the incredible work of educators who are genuine 'hope dealers.' This episode celebrates the educators' role in transforming schools into havens for well-being and emotional security.

But it's not just the students who need nurturing; educators carry the weight of their responsibilities, often absorbing the trauma of those they help. Niko shares the essential role of self-care practices and community engagement in fostering a holistic educational ecosystem. The chapter on love and empowerment is a heartfelt reminder of the profound impact we can make through every encounter. As we wrap up this enlightening conversation, we invite you to join us in championing wellness initiatives, reminding everyone to be the beacon of light and positivity in the lives of our youth, primarily through the challenging seasons.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

• Connect with Niko on LinkedIn and X.
• Learn more about the Wellness Center via K12 Dive Magazine.

In this episode, we're joined by Jamillah Parker, whose social work expertise revolutionizes how we approach teaching and learning in education. Undoubtedly, the rhythm of our daily lives can benefit from a sprinkle of mindfulness, a practice that transcends cultural and religious divides. Today, we unpack the art of bringing serenity into the classroom and home, highlighting the simplicity of deep breathing exercises and their power to calm and center our youngest learners. Through engaging anecdotes and relatable activities, we'll guide you on respectfully introducing these practices to children and their families, fostering a dialogue of understanding and acceptance, and setting the stage for our upcoming workshop to soothe the edges of anxiety.

The episode concludes with an ode to self-care and the relentless pursuit of accurate information. We share the personal self-care rituals that keep social-emotional wellness afloat, from experimenting in the kitchen to the soothing melodies of music. So, wrap yourself in the warmth of this conversation that celebrates the love and commitment we hold dear in our professional and personal lives.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

Connect with Jamillah on LinkedIn and  X.

In this episode of SELinEDU, we discuss the vital intersection of mental health and education, the stress and anxiety that burden today's youth, and the essential strategies for building resilience.

With his deep roots in education and advocacy, Justin Rubenstein sheds light on the stressors plaguing our children, highlighting the importance of demystifying mental health and fortifying our young with the skills to overcome life's obstacles. We trade insights on the delicate balance of stress as a motivator versus a barrier, sharing tangible strategies for managing mental wellness and underscoring educators' critical role in nurturing a supportive learning environment.

Weaving through the chapters of our exchange, we celebrate the power of play and the concept of front-loading in education. Reminiscing about childhood games that unconsciously equipped us with life skills, we underscore the lasting value of these experiences in fostering growth. As we wrap up, we extend a heartfelt call to action for collective support of our youth, spotlighting the indispensable role of Social Emotional Learning within our communities.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

• Connect with Justin via Psychology Today, Twitter and Instagram.
• Read his publications:
  • Rubenstein, J.S. (2023, February 1). From student to leader, the influence of brain science. Professional Learning Partnerships. From Student to Leader: The Influence of Brain Science | Professional Learning Partnerships. 
  • Christner, R. W., Heim, M., Gipe, K., Mennuti, R.B., & Rubenstein, J. Facilitating mental health services in schools: Universal, targeted, and interventions. In T.M. Lionetti, E. Snyder, & R.W. Christner (Eds.), A practical guide to developing competencies in school psychology. New York: Springer Publishing. 
  • Christner, R. W., & Rubenstein, J. (2006, February). Factors associated with separation anxiety disorder following World Trade Center attacks. Communique, 34(5).
    
    

As we embrace the 2024 year, SELinEDU continues its third season with a spark that ignites the crucial conversations around inclusion, belonging, and empathy in classrooms today. We're thrilled to sit down with the remarkable Hedreich Nichols, whose voice rises above the din to champion educational equity and amplify the whispers of student voices into roars. Her works - from the insightful 'Small Bites' podcast to writings that tackle systemic inequalities - infuse our kickoff month with a robust palette of perspectives. 

Crucial to this season's narrative is recognizing and navigating societal blind spots. Hedreich's personal experiences springboard into discussions about the nuances of professional appearance, the complexities of raising children in a world with evidence of discrimination, and the unmatched power of love and courage as championed by Maya Angelou and Brene Brown. Through our candid talk, Hedreich clarifies the importance of these courageous conversations in creating a better world where every individual's story is heard and valued.

Our shared journey is not just about introspection but also about implementing actionable strategies for teaching interpersonal relationships within the school environment. We acknowledge the multifaceted role of social and emotional learning (SEL), understanding that academic success is closely linked with our ability to comprehend and empathize with each other. From the practical application of conflict resolution methods to encouraging student-led discussions, our conversation serves as a beacon for educators aiming to cultivate the next generation of considerate, empathetic leaders. As we conclude this episode, we sincerely wish for a transformative new year filled with the bravery to confront our blind spots and the insight to guide others through theirs.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

• Connect with Hedreich via her website, X, Instagram, and Small Bites Podcast.
• Read her book, Finding Your Blind Spot, and Edutopia articles.