Taking One Step at a Time: Using Every Stakeholder’s Role to Promote SEL for All 

As part of a whole child model of teaching, learning and caring, ALL4SC - Accelerating Learning & Leadership for South Carolina – sees implementing evidence-based SEL strategies as fundamental for all students, teachers, families and communities. In partnership with United Way of the Midlands and National University, ALL4SC promotes using common evidence-based practices - such as Harmony SEL curriculum and Inspire professional development offerings - throughout the school building and across care and education providers.

September’s SEL newsletter highlights innovative strategies that everyone can try at home or in the classroom. The start of the new school year is a good time to set lasting foundations for students’ long-term, sustainable social and emotional well-being. Read on to learn about resources, information, and tips that can benefit students, teachers, and families in social emotional learning and academic outcomes. 

Preparing for 21-22 School Year: Lead with Motivation and Determination 

All three of the Everyday Practices (Meet Up, Buddy Up, and Harmony) are helpful in establishing quality student-teacher relationships and a thriving classroom climate, Teachers can use these engagement strategies and work directly with students to set the tone for learning and development. Read on for a brief overview of all three Everyday Practices that parents and teachers can use in and out of the classroom. 
 
The table below provides a quick snapshot example of how teachers can incorporate Meet Up and Buddy Up into a weekly classroom weekly routine. Lessons vary from 30 – 45 minutes. When using Buddy Up in the classroom, Harmony suggests using a buddy grid and buddy board to track who has been paired up, and display pairs to the entire classroom. When using Buddy Up, teachers can change up student pairs throughout the year which helps build connections. Additionally, Meet Up helps students and teacher discuss classroom goals and questions in a safe and encouraging environment. Starting the day with a 10-minute Meet Up fosters a sense of community and allows students to problem solve together. 

Where to Begin: Register and Get Started with Harmony and Inspire

School Community Building Toolkits – Harmony and Inspire 

 Resource Hub

• The Symbiosis of Writing and Social-Emotional Growth 
• How to Reduce Teacher Stress 
• Social and Emotional Supports for Educators During and After the Pandemic

 Thoughts or Questions?