Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
Social Emotional Learning Program - Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE DMS SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING (SEL) PROGRAM?
The DMS Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Program is facilitated by the DMS School Social Worker, Mrs. Yvette, and is designed to identify and assist students experiencing possible barriers to learning and success at school. The program is also designed to help students feel connected here at Day and to provide strategies to help overcome challenges he/she may be facing at school. Support can be provided through weekly small group counseling sessions (typically lasting around 8-10 weeks), or through weekly individual meetings. Under the guidance of the DMS Counselors, School Social Work and/or School Counseling Interns provide targeted skill instruction during the counseling groups and 1:1 meetings. Additionally, the DMS Counselors and Interns are available to meet with students for additional follow-up, as well as with parents for ongoing collaboration as needed.
HOW CAN MY CHILD BECOME INVOLVED IN THE SEL PROGRAM?
Students can be referred for SEL support by any concerned person, including parents, counselors, teachers, administrators, or any other school personnel. A referral can be made for anything that could potentially impact a student’s success at school, including but not limited to: low/declining grades, negative behavior choices, low motivation, poor peer interactions, withdrawal from activities, changes in friends, low self-esteem, sadness/depression, anxiety, self-harm, and bullying.
Once a referral is made, the Counseling Team gathers additional information (ie: review grades, prior contacts with counselors, discipline history, attendance, feedback from teachers, etc.) to determine the appropriateness of the SEL group for that particular student. The Counseling Team will also contact parents/guardians for input and consent prior to any group meetings.
WHAT WILL MY CHILD DISCUSS DURING THE GROUP MEETINGS?
Although the exact focus of each group may vary depending on the make-up of the students selected, each week will typically address a different age-appropriate topic regarding general school-related areas (ie: goal setting, work habits, preparing for your future), or other social-emotional issues (ie: dealing with peer pressure, overcoming challenges, effective communication), in an encouraging and educational small group setting. Past groups have focused on Positive Choices/Motivation, Anxiety Management, Social Skills, Girls Empowerment/Self-Esteem, and Anger Management.
WHERE CAN I FIND MORE INFORMATION?
If you would like to learn more about the DMS SEL Program please contact your DMS Counselors. For DMS Counselor contact information, click HERE.