Dear Academic Approach Families:

As an educator, I’ve always been aware of my impact not only on the academic progress of my students but also on their positive mindsets and attitudes as they navigate challenging circumstances and unexpected hurdles.

Social-Emotional Learning

Seeing our students develop successfully on and beyond the test has always been central to our work. We’ve dug deep into the evidenced-based practices of social and emotional learning (SEL) through our research and partnerships, and our instruction incorporates the core elements of SEL: improving students’ self-awareness, social awareness, self-management, decision making, and relationship management. Students with strong social emotional skills often find greater academic success. They’re also more equipped to face and overcome challenges they encounter in all aspects of life.

Supporting Social-Emotional Learning at Home

Teaching SEL helps our students face challenges and builds resilience to thrive in the months ahead. With schools either closed or shifted to e-learning, SEL is all the more important to emphasize at home. The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) has put together a great resource page for families and educators to help incorporate SEL as they support students during challenging times.

Share Your Recommendations

We’ll continue to share ways to support our students and prepare them for the challenges ahead. Have any recommendations for SEL, games and activities, or student support? Send them my way.

Be well,
Matthew Pietrafetta, Ph.D., Founder & CEO