SEL Archives

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Redefined: Embracing Culture for Student Success

July 26, 2023 No Comments

At WAM, we’re passionate about creating inclusive and empowering educational environments that truly resonate with students. The 2020 article highlighting Black students’ experiences in schools really hit home with our mission to tackle the persisting racial inequities and injustices in education. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) should be deeply rooted in cultural relevance to effectively support the development and well-being of diverse youth. We understand that students, especially those from Black communities, often face unfair biases, disciplinary discrepancies, and limited access to advanced programs. These injustices can lead to racial trauma and impede students’ academic and social-emotional growth. That’s why we’re strong advocates for the power of Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRT) and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), which acknowledge the impact of culture-blindness and confronts racial biases head-on. But it’s not just talk for us; we’re committed to action. Our platform embraces culturally responsive practices, the latest methodologies, and a whole lot of support. Our goal is to ensure every student feels seen, heard, and valued for who they are. By centering cultural traditions, providing online mentoring, and fostering a nurturing community, we strive to create safe and empowering spaces where students can thrive in and out of school. Join us in the fight for educational equity and cultural empowerment. Dive into the full article here to gain further insight into the challenges students of color face and the pressing need for culturally relevant SEL. To learn more about our initiatives and how you can contribute to this transformative movement, look through our website or reach out to us.

You, WAM, and SEL.

May 23, 2023 No Comments

A little bit ago, we filled you in on all things SEL (social-emotional learning), but you may still have questions. For example, how does WAM make use of it? And how can it help your community? Don’t worry; we’ve got you. The answers to all your questions are just a few sentences away. LEARN MORE→ A focus on equality and inclusion is a vital part of SEL; however, WAM takes it a step further by purposefully supporting students of color. We incorporate SEL into our mentor platform and center Black and Brown experiences and voices. Because, let’s face it, places that operate with us in mind are few and far between. We know that how we teach and relate to students of color sometimes looks different, and there’s a need for relevant perspectives and tools to reach them in meaningful ways. WAM is an innovative platform that meets that need. A focus on equality and inclusion is a vital part of SEL; however, WAM takes it a step further by purposefully supporting students of color. We incorporate SEL into our mentor platform and center Black and Brown experiences and voices. Because, let’s face it, places that operate with us in mind are few and far between. We know that how we teach and relate to students of color sometimes looks different, and there’s a need for relevant perspectives and tools to reach them in meaningful ways. WAM is an innovative platform that meets that need. Using the SEL Framework and Our Two Other Domains The WAM platform reduced suspension rates by 20%, truancy by 40%, and substance abuse by 60%. How SEL + WAM Can Help Your Community WAM is designed to work with educational institutions, building on existing programming. We provide tools that align with your vision by listening to your specific needs and goals. By becoming a thought partner with WAM, you will be part of a comprehensive process that determines where you currently are, hones in on your priorities, and gives a plan of action. Implementing SEL into your schools and districts, you will: Improve knowledge, skills, and attitudes in five social and emotional competence areas. Reduce teacher biases. Establish equitable learning environments that support students’ social, emotional, and long-term academic development. You’re the experts; you know what’s best. We want to support the work you’re already doing to develop skills and create learning environments that take a whole-student approach to development. Together, we can positively shift outcomes for Black and Brown students. ENROLL NOW→ Want More Info About Our Other Two Domains? You’re in luck. The basics of CRT (culturally responsive teaching) is our next topic. While you wait for the next super informative post, explore our website to learn more. Follow us on social media! Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin.

What is SEL?

May 23, 2023 No Comments

Introducing SEL (social-emotional learning), one of three domains WAM Academy (WAM) uses in our mentoring platform. It equips Black and Brown students with the tools they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom. We are revolutionizing mentorship, in part, by incorporating the latest SEL data into our approach. We know what you’re probably thinking: “Sounds great, but get on with the explanation.” So without further ado, below is an SEL overview. SEL 101 SEL is a component of the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) program, which helps to cultivate skills and environments that advance students’ learning and development. SEL is a pretty big deal. It addresses the five core competencies and enables schools and communities to equip students with the interpersonal skills needed to develop a healthy sense of self, make decisions, build connections, and achieve personal and academic success. It works with the community in mind, using a “teach the teacher” method that allows them to create safe, welcoming places for students to learn. This produces well-rounded students who add value to their communities according to their strengths, needs, and cultures — and it’s backed by research! Hundreds of independent studies, to be exact, but who’s counting? Spoiler alert: we are. ENROLL NOW→ SEL Piqued Your Interest? We hope so! We’ll post again shortly to explain exactly how WAM integrates SEL into our platform. In the meantime, visit our website to learn more. Follow us on social media! Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin.

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