Social and Emotional Learning: Best Practices and Barriers to Successful Implementation

This report discusses best practices and barriers to successful implementation of social and emotional learning (SEL) at six case study schools in AISD. Researchers from the AISD Department of Research and Evaluation conducted focus groups and interviews with students and staff at two elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools to learn about what helps schools integrate SEL into the pedagogy and culture, and what hinders these efforts. A theoretical framework of AISD SEL implementation is proposed, as well as recommendations for campus and program improvement.