Why Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?

Emotional intelligence is critical for lifelong happiness, successful careers, and healthier relationships, social-emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which students can better understand, manage, and express emotions and empathy, develop positive relationships and make responsible decisions.  At Evansville Day School we understand that students with strong social-emotional skills are better equipped to manage daily challenges, build positive relationships, and make informed decisions. We are committed to helping our students develop these core life abilities that will empower them to be effective contributors in the classrooms, workplaces, and communities.

What is Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)?

SEL addresses five broad and interrelated areas of competence: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. 

Primary School SEL Objectives: 

• Understanding, identifying, and managing emotions
• Listening skills
• Focusing attention
• Being respectful 
• Developing empathy
• Stress and calming techniques
• Building and maintaining friendships 
• Navigating peer relationships
• Problem-solving skills
• Understanding different perspectives

Middle School SEL Objectives: 

• Growth Mindset and academic success
• Developing study and organizational skills
• Developing positive growth mindsets
• Identifying personal values
• Exploring and strengthening friendships 
• Advanced stress and anxiety calming strategies
• Goal setting (personal and academic)
• Regulating emotion and decision-making
• Recognizing others’ perspectives
• Conflict resolution 
• Anti-bullying & power of bystanders
• Embracing challenges
• Setting if-then plans 
• Identifying and developing leadership styles
• Career/college exploration

Upper School SEL Objectives:

• Identifying feelings and managing emotions
• Identifying and developing leadership styles
• Mindfulness, journaling, and reflection
• Stress and anxiety coping skills
• Positive self-image
• Test anxiety and how to deal

SEL Team:
Dr. Mary Jane Gibson, Health & SEL Coordinator 
Vanessa Marvin, Primary School SEL
Laura Arrick, Youth First Counselor
Robin Renschler, Head of Primary School
Holly Ziemer, Head of Middle & Upper School
Anna Vance, School Nurse