SEL IN ACTION
DECEMBER 2020
Message from Teaching & Learning Leadership
As we reach the end of the calendar year, we don’t need much more explanation or data to prove that this year has been tough in so many ways. In the midst of still navigating COVID-19, economic hardship, and ongoing uncertainty, it’s easy (and understandable) to dwell in the darkness. Although we can’t simply ignore or wipe away the difficulties of 2020, we can still find the light by reflecting on what we’re grateful for, hopeful for, and the people we appreciate. NPR’s Lift Kit recently had a great podcast episode on “Advice for Dealing with Uncertainty- From People Who Have Been There” (18 minutes) which includes suggestions to find time for reflection and continuing to stay connected with others, among other strategies.
Thank you to everyone, especially our educators, for their dedication, focus, and ongoing resilience. Thank you to team members who supported each other during tough days and difficult conversations. Thank you to community partners who have likewise found creative ways to support our students and families this year.
May everyone find joy, rejuvenation, and (safe) connection with friends and family during the winter break!
Derek Little,
Deputy Chief of Academics (Programs)
This Month's Focus: Gratitude and Optimistic Closings
As we approach the holiday season, we want to encourage all of our students, staff members, and families to make time for gratitude. The habits of gratitude, reflection, and appreciating important aspects of our lives are closely linked with Social and Emotional Learning, especially the competencies of self-awareness and relationships skills.
As you reflect on the positive aspects of your life (family, friends, safety, health, etc.), be sure to pass it on and share that gratitude by:
Writing a thank you note to a friend, neighbor, or colleague who has helped you
Taking time in a staff meeting to verbally share thanks to team members or write appreciation notes
Calling a long-distance friend or family member to let them know that you’re thinking about them and value their support
Running an errand for someone or bringing a small item for them as a favor (coffee, favorite snack, etc.)
Teaching Tolerance: Appreciation for My Fellow Teachers
Jamilah Pitts, an educator in Harlem, New York, wrote an Appreciation for My Fellow Teachers letter back in 2018 as part of Teacher Appreciation Week. Although this was written well before COVID-19, she does a beautiful job of describing the complexity of teaching and the courage it takes to serve our students.
We wish all of our Dallas community members happiness, health, and rejuvenation during this season of gratitude!
Edutopia Article- School Leadership
Additional Resources
Podcast
NPR's Lift Kit: Scientifically Proven Ways to be Happier (15 minutes)-- including reflecting on and sharing our gratitude!
Guided Meditation
Greater Good in Action: Gratitude Meditation
Gratitude Journal for Students
Greater Good in Action: Gratitude Journal for Students
Optimistic Closures
Gratitude Journal for Adults
Edutopia Article
Training & Learning Opportunities
On the same website, CASEL also shares recordings of past webinars including:
- A Five-Part Series on "SEL as a Lever for Equity"
- "Permission To Feel for Adults: Healthy Emotion Regulation During Uncertain and Stressful Times"
"Permission To Feel for Kids: How Adults can Support Children in Managing Emotions During Challenging Times"
"Return to School During COVID 19: Helping Children and Families Manage Stress and Build Resilience"
And many other topics!
Resources for SEL Explicit Skills Instruction
Sanford Harmony (Elementary School)
Random Acts of Kindness (Middle School)
Facing History and Ourselves (High School)
Family & Caregiver Resources
SEL Family Discussion Series
As part of the SEL Dallas partnership, join Dallas ISD’s SEL Department for a series of 1-hour family-focused virtual sessions to learn about social and emotional learning (SEL) and important SEL skills. Parents and caregivers are welcome to join any session or the entire series, and a Spanish translator will be available!
Our next session (Hopes & Dreams) is scheduled for Wednesday, December 16th from 4:30PM - 5:30PM. Remember to register with our English registration form or our Spanish registration form.
Attitude of Gratitude
· Stronger immune systems
· Lower blood pressure
- Less stress and anxiety
· Better sleep
· More optimism and happiness
· Feeling less lonely and isolated
Jeffrey Froh, Associate Professor of Psychology at Hofstra University and author of Making Grateful Kids, The Science of Building Character suggests parents model how to express gratitude, give thanks, and be generous to help instill gratitude in their children. Below are ideas for families to help start these conversations.
Family Gratitude Jar
Interview a Mentor or Family Member
Practice Yoga for Gratitude with YogaEd
Sign Up for Our Upcoming Family Newsletter!
Parents and caregivers can submit their contact information via our sign-up form. We also have a Spanish version of the sign-up form as well!
Please share both language versions widely with any parents who may be interested in signing up for our family-focused newsletter!
SEL Dallas
Check out the November edition of the SEL Dallas newsletter!
SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING DEPARTMENT
Email: SEL@dallasisd.org
Website: Dallasisd.org/sel
Location: 9400 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972-925-8951
Twitter: @DallasisdSEL