Linking Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Concepts into Your Interview

Dr. Toni L. Mild, Dr. Jessica Hall-Wirth, and Dr. Ashlea RineerHershey, College of Education, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania

There are many topics and skill sets that you should highlight on your resume and during the interview process. Some of these may include differentiated instruction, knowledge of Individualized Education Programs, components of an effective reading program, Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and use of technology within the classroom. However, another topic has become increasingly popular and beneficial in the world of education - Social Emotional Learning (SEL).

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) encompasses teaching students’ certain skills so they can become a well-rounded individual. Many SEL curriculums focus on empathy, social skills and managing emotions. They teach students how to effectively understand and regulate their feelings and emotions so that they can build healthy relationships, achieve goals and ultimately be successful in their communities.

If you are not familiar with SEL or its components, make yourself aware by visiting one of the leading organizations in SEL, the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL) website. You can find a wealth of information and many resources on their link: https://casel.org/what-is-sel/

CASEL has created a framework that outlines their five core competencies of SEL. When these core competencies are implemented within the classroom setting, schools can see an increase in school attendance, a decrease in dropout rates, an increase in positive student behaviors and better grades.

Incorporating SEL components into the interview process can show each district that you are up to date on new initiatives within the field of education and have a proactive philosophy on how to promote student success both socially and emotionally. Consider taking it a step further and building a lesson plan that incorporates the SEL components to showcase your ideas. Perhaps by including SEL within your resume or interview, that could be the ‘thing’ that sets you apart from other candidates –and ultimately makes you their candidate of choice.

References:

Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning. https://casel.org