This spring, we are proud to offer a variety of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) opportunities designed to support the well-being and growth of educators across our region. As the demands of education continue to evolve, prioritizing social and emotional wellness is more important than ever—for both students and the adults who support them.
Our Spring 2026 SEL programming focuses on building practical strategies, fostering reflection, and strengthening resilience through meaningful, accessible learning experiences.
What is Social Emotional Learning?
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process through which individuals develop the skills to understand and manage emotions, build positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.
According to Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning, SEL is grounded in five core competencies:
Self-Awareness
Self-Management
Social Awareness
Relationship Skills
Responsible Decision-Making
These competencies help individuals navigate challenges, build connections, and succeed both in and out of the classroom.
Why Adult SEL Matters
A strong SEL foundation for students begins with the adults who support them. Educators are constantly navigating complex emotional environments—balancing instructional demands, student needs, and their own well-being. Without intentional support, this can lead to stress, fatigue, and burnout.
Adult SEL focuses on helping educators build their own skills in self-awareness, emotional regulation, relationship-building, and decision-making. When these competencies are strengthened in adults, the impact is far-reaching.
Educators with strong social and emotional skills are better able to:
Respond to student needs with patience and empathy
Create safe, predictable, and supportive classroom environments
Navigate challenging situations with confidence and professionalism
Model healthy emotional regulation and communication
Importantly, adult SEL is not an “extra”—it is a critical component of effective teaching and sustainable practice. When educators feel supported and well, students benefit.
Our Spring 2026 SEL Offerings
Cultivating a Classroom of Calm: Spring SEL Book Study
This asynchronous book study provides an opportunity to deepen both instructional practice and personal reflection—connecting directly to adult SEL by helping educators examine their own responses, routines, and classroom presence.
Spring Wellness Challenge 2026
Wellness is a key part of adult SEL. This three-week challenge is designed to support educators in strengthening their own well-being through manageable, meaningful activities. By focusing on small, consistent wellness practices, participants can build habits that support emotional balance, reduce stress, and increase overall resilience.
Regional SEL Community of Practice
New this year, we are partnering with Char-Em ISD to create a regional SEL Community of Practice. This group will consist of anyone MAISA Region 2 (basically Northern Lower Michigan) who is a champion for SEL in some fashion. The goal of the group will be to share ideas, resources, and learning. The first virtual meet-up is scheduled for May 19.
A Connected Approach to SEL
As emphasized by Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning, SEL is most effective when it is integrated across all parts of a school community. That includes a strong focus on adult SEL alongside student supports.
Our spring programming reflects this belief by intentionally supporting educators as learners and individuals. By strengthening adult SEL, we create the conditions for stronger relationships, improved classroom environments, and more meaningful student outcomes.