Generation Schools Network

Simplifying Social Emotional Learning Delivery for Educators During the Pandemic 

Roles

Project Lead, Problem Space Exploration, Research, Curriculum Design, Design Strategy, Outreach Coordination

Challenge

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, our team encountered feedback from educators highlighting the challenges of implementing Social Emotional Learning (SEL) lessons in remote learning environments. Educators also expressed concerns about time constraints, indicating that SEL was given lower priority due to limited time for planning and delivering lessons from the organization’s curriculum.

Process

  • Recognizing the critical need for SEL during the pandemic, our focus was to ease the burden on teachers by simplifying the content and usability of the organization’s curriculum. This involved streamlining preparation time, creating user-friendly materials, and aligning content with educators’ highest needs.

  • We transitioned from traditional 45-minute lessons to 'grab n go' lessons designed to be implemented in 10-20 minutes with minimal preparation. These lessons were tailored for both remote and in-person formats, incorporating research on SEL in remote environments and utilizing Zoom meeting functions. Additionally, we provided instructions for alternative materials such as Padlet, ensuring accessibility for all learners.

  • To support whole school implementation, we developed monthly themes alongside the 'grab n go' lessons for consistency across classrooms and grade levels. Each theme includes resources for teachers, students, administrators, and families, fostering school-to-family connections.

  • Based on feedback from school leadership, we initiated monthly forums focused on the theme, inviting experts in education to share research and strategies for classroom integration.

Outcome

The 'grab n go' lessons, monthly themes, and forums are disseminated through monthly newsletters, teacher curriculum folders, and the organization’s website. Continuous feedback and testimonials are collected to inform iterative improvements. An Elementary School principal shared, “With our partnership, we were able to keep social/emotional learning at the forefront when planning for students and staff.”