Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is an evidence-based approach designed to help students acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Implementing SEL in schools has been shown to enhance students’ social and emotional skills, improve attitudes towards self and others, and increase academic performance. SEL programs, like Darcheinu and Our Path SEL, are particularly crucial in today’s complex and fast-paced world, providing students with the tools to navigate personal and social challenges effectively.
SEL, or Social and Emotional Learning, is the foundation of the Darcheinu and Our Path curricula.
Grounded in evidence-based practices, SEL has proven benefits, as highlighted by a 2017 Columbia University study.
The study, initiated in 2011 and followed up in 2017, demonstrated the positive impact of SEL in various aspects:
Students with SEL showed a 13-percentile point increase in academic performance.
SEL participants exhibited enhanced social and emotional skills, attitudes, and behavior.
Participants experienced lower levels of conduct issues and emotional distress.
Alcohol and substance abuse were significantly reduced among SEL participants by 40% - 60%.
Victims of abuse or bullying were 9 times more likely to report incidents.
Acceptance into prestigious colleges was 16 times higher for those with SEL programs.
Lower divorce rates were observed.
77% of students reported feeling comfortable seeking guidance from the Program teacher.
Look forward to their Darcheinu class.
Feel comfortable confiding in their Darcheinu teacher.
Believe that the information learned in Darcheienu class will enable them to make healthier decisions.
Darcheinu is Endorsed by the Vaad Roshei HaYeshiva of Torah Umesorah and is under the auspices of Harav Hillel David Shlit”a and Harav Elya Brudny Shlit”a.