• SEL (Social Emotional Learning) Program  

    Program Description

    The SEL (Social Emotional Learning) program is designed with a focus on the intensive programming and supports that are needed for students exhibiting deficits in the areas of behavioral and emotional regulation. Additional programmatic targets are social relationships, social cognition, academics, and de-escalation strategies. Because of the intensity of the supports given, the classroom size is smaller (approximately 8 students) with a lower staff to student ratio. Direct instruction in the areas of emotional/behavioral regulation as well as social skills is a daily component of the program. Access to the general education and core curriculum is also embedded in the structure of the day, per the recommendations as found in each student’s IEP. For students who need a more intensive instructional approach, modified and alternate curriculum options are available. All curriculum parallels what is taught in the general education classes and is aligned with state standards.

    In addition to the focus on social and emotional functioning as it relates to educational success, students also are afforded a full complement of related services. These services can include counseling from either a school social worker or psychologist, occupational therapy, speech therapy and/or physical therapy. The specific related services for individual students are outlined in their IEPs.

    Student Profile

    Students in the SEL program are unique individuals with challenges that are specific to their learning profile. However, students typically have had difficulty with maintaining regulation in the following areas:

    • Social-emotional
    • Behavioral
    • Communication
    • Sensory
    • Independent functioning

    These challenges have resulted in the need for specialized instruction in a setting outside of the general education classroom. Students who are considered for placement in the program will have had at least one Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and at least one Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP).

    Program Goal

    The delivery of a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE) is not only a legal mandate but a program goal. However, the environment that proves to be least restrictive as well as appropriate to meet the students’ unique needs is a team decision and is as individual as the students themselves. General education placement decisions should be made with the student in mind, specifically with regard to gaining meaningful educational benefit and participating in the classroom environment in a meaningful way.

    As students improve upon their skills in managing and regulating their emotional and behavioral challenges, staff will support them toward an increased level of general education participation. The ultimate goal is for students to return to their general education class utilizing strategies they have learned and incorporated as established skills.