Why SEL?

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 Statistics

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.

This research revealed a notable $11 return for every $1 invested in SEL programs.

The study, initiated in 2011 and followed up in 2017, demonstrated the positive impact of SEL in various aspects:

13% Increase in Academic Performance

Students with SEL showed a 13-percentile point increase in academic performance.

Enhanced Skills and Behavior

SEL participants exhibited enhanced social and emotional skills, attitudes, and behavior.

Lower Conduct Issues

Participants experienced lower levels of conduct issues and emotional distress.

Reduced Substance Abuse

Alcohol and substance abuse were significantly reduced among SEL participants by 40% - 60%.

Increased Reporting

Victims of abuse or bullying were 9 times more likely to report incidents.

Higher College Acceptance

Acceptance into prestigious colleges was 16 times higher for those with SEL programs.

Lower Divorce Rates

Lower divorce rates were observed.

Supportive Environment

77% of students reported feeling comfortable seeking guidance from the Program teacher.

What our students Say

Anonymous Surveys Conducted Post-Curriculum
Completion Reflect Insights From Hundreds of Students.

81.9% of Students Surveyed

Look forward to their Darcheinu class.

70.9% of Students Surveyed

Feel comfortable confiding in their Darcheinu teacher.

69.3% of Students Surveyed

Believe that the information learned in Darcheienu class will enable them to make healthier decisions.

Testimonials

On a regular basis, teachers from all over, write in to tell us what they love about Darcheinu.
"The Darcheinu program is very applicable. The girls relate to it. It's halacha l'maaseh for them, practical tools they can use right now. It gives the girls something real. They love our teacher, and they open up to her - that is a very necessary piece for the success of the program."
Rebbetzin Miriam Tropper
Assistant Principal
Torah Academy for Girls High School, Far Rockaway, NY
"I found that the girls looked forward to the Darcheinu Lessons-and enjoyed the games and discussions. As the school guidance counselor, it was so helpful having prepared Lesson Plans on social emotional skills. I believe these foundational skills will IY”H enable us to develop emotionally healthy young women."
Mrs. Hindy Motzen
School Guidance Counselor
and Darcheinu Facilitator
Bnos Yisroel, Baltimore, MD
"The sessions have been increasing the student's awareness of crucial topics which are relative to their lives- such as self-control, focusing on long-term goals, and personal growth and awareness."
Mrs. Nechama Jakobovits, MACP
Director of Student Services
and Darcheinu Facilitator
Bais Yaakov High School, Chicago, IL