The Value of a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum
The 2022-2023 school year marked the rollout of the Waldorf School of Philadelphia’s Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum for students in Grades 1-8, though this work has always been embedded in, and integral to, our classroom culture. As an academic institution, we understand the importance of teaching the whole child: mind, body, and spirit. Research shows that social emotional learning and character education curricula benefit students in myriad ways.
Fifth Grade Forum
Fifth Grade Forum is well underway in Ms. Richardson’s class this year. Born of a desire to instill a culture of kindness and social awareness in our classrooms, the Forum provides students with an opportunity to engage in weekly conversations and reflections around topics of identity, kindness, conflict resolution, diversity, and justice.
Sixth Grade Seminar
By studying the inspirational stories of those who came before us, The Sixth Grade Seminar provides students with opportunities to use their voices, to make connections, think critically, and learn more about the lives of important people in history, as well as themselves.
Social Emotional Learning and Anti-Bullying Curriculum
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is important because the skills learned are essentially life skills which are needed to be successful in the classroom, at home, with friends, and in future relationships. Regardless of age, culture, education or socioeconomic status, we all need to know how to manage our emotions, understand and believe in ourselves, establish and maintain positive relationships with others, and make responsible decisions.