Social Emotional Learning is a Solid Investment

Many educators and parents will agree that SEL is important and should be implemented in schools. One of the more common barriers to entry is cost. The cost associated with a formal SEL program such as “My Best Me” can be challenging. So let’s break down the cost vs. benefit.

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Cost Breakdown

Is SEL a wise financial investment?

Yes! Social Emotional Learning is a solid investment. A study from Columbia University found that an SEL program can have an average of 1:11 return on investment. SEL is not only an important investment for your students BUT also a good financial investment. 

Leveraging federal funds for SEL

Social Emotional Learning may be a good investment but finding the funds to allocate to this investment can be tricky. The main source of funds for SEL is the Title IV-A block grant. This grant authorizes activity in three broad areas:

• Providing students with a well rounded education (arts, STEM, computer sciences).
• Support the safety and health of students (SEL, drug and violence prevention, physical education).
• Supporting effective use of technology (devices to give access to technology and digital materials).

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Benefit Analysis

Principles and Teachers agree SEL should be a priority

According to CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning) 83% of principals believe social emotional learning is critical and should be part of a students school experience. 80% of educators believe that social emotions well being is critical for academic success and developing foundational literacy. 93% of teachers want a greater focus on social emotional learning in the classroom. 

Students benefit a great deal from SEL

We know that social and emotional learning (SEL) improves self awareness, self management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. All of these skills help students throughout their academic journey and promote long term positive outcomes. This ultimately results in greater graduation rates. 

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When Hope meets SEL – Hope Rising Curriculum

During social emotional learning education, students properly develop healthy attitudes, learn to manage emotions, create strategies to achieve goals, and cultivate positive relationships. Infusing skills to learn to hope in our SEL curriculum encourages students to work toward a better tomorrow.