Top 7 SEL Programs for Elementary Schools in 2026
In today's elementary schools, the need for robust social-emotional learning (SEL) has never been more apparent. Moving beyond a simple classroom management tool, effective SEL is foundational to building a thriving school culture where students feel safe, understood, and equipped to succeed. It directly impacts academic achievement, reduces behavioral issues, and provides children with essential life skills like self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making. The core challenge for principals, counselors, and district leaders is navigating the crowded market of sel programs for elementary schools to find one that genuinely aligns with their community's unique needs, budget, and implementation capacity.
This guide is designed to solve that exact problem. We will provide a clear, comprehensive roundup of seven leading programs, moving beyond marketing claims to offer actionable insights. For each program, you'll find a concise profile, key features, and practical examples that teachers and parents can use to support students. We'll explore how one program might use a puppet to teach conflict resolution in kindergarten, while another might use digital scenarios to help fifth graders practice responsible social media use. While fostering this environment primarily involves robust programming, schools also often utilize complementary tools to build community, such as exploring strategic uses of promotional products for schools to reinforce core values.
Our goal is to equip you with the specific information needed to make a confident and informed decision for your students. To help you compare options as you read, we've organized the key data for each program into a scannable comparison matrix at the end of the article. Let's dive in.
1. Soul Shoppe
Soul Shoppe stands out as a comprehensive and deeply experienced partner for schools seeking to build a resilient, empathetic, and communicative campus culture. With over two decades of dedicated work in K-8 schools, this organization offers one of the most robust and flexible sel programs for elementary schools, combining research-backed curriculum with dynamic, experiential learning. Their approach moves beyond simple lesson plans, focusing on creating a shared language and practical tools that students, staff, and families can use to navigate complex social and emotional landscapes.
The core of Soul Shoppe's methodology is its focus on whole-community transformation. They understand that for SEL to be effective, it must be integrated into every aspect of the school day. This is achieved through a multi-faceted delivery model that includes interactive student workshops, powerful school-wide assemblies, and ongoing professional development and coaching for educators. This ensures that the principles of self-regulation, conflict resolution, and empathy are not just taught, but consistently modeled and reinforced by all adults in the community.
Key Features and Practical Applications
Soul Shoppe excels in translating SEL theory into actionable, everyday skills. Their programs are designed to be immediately applicable, equipping students with tools to handle real-world challenges.
- Experiential Learning: Instead of passive instruction, students engage in role-playing and interactive activities. For example, in a workshop on conflict resolution, students might practice using "I-statements" to express their feelings during a simulated disagreement over a playground game, learning to say, "I feel frustrated when I don't get a turn," instead of, "You're hogging the ball!"
- Flexible Delivery Formats: Schools can choose the level of engagement that fits their needs and budget, from a single, high-impact assembly to kick off an anti-bullying campaign, to a year-long, embedded coaching program for teachers. They also offer a digital app and online courses, making SEL accessible for at-home reinforcement.
- Whole-Community Focus: Soul Shoppe provides resources for parents and hosts community-building events like the Peaceful Warriors Summit. This extends the learning beyond the classroom, creating a cohesive support system for children. For instance, parents might receive a newsletter with conversation starters about empathy, such as asking, "How do you think your friend felt when you shared your snack today?" mirroring the language their child is learning in school.
- Strong Credibility: The organization's impact is backed by a 20+ year track record and recognized thought leadership, including a TEDx talk by founder Vicki Abadesco and partnerships with respected initiatives like the Junior Giants. You can explore more ideas on their blog, which details a variety of social-emotional learning activities for elementary students.
Implementation Insight: For a school just beginning its SEL journey, a great starting point with Soul Shoppe is their "Peacemaker Program" assembly. This single event can introduce core concepts and a common vocabulary school-wide, creating immediate momentum and buy-in from both students and staff for deeper programming later.
Program Details and Considerations
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Grade Band | Kindergarten–8th Grade |
| Delivery Format | On-site (assemblies, workshops, coaching), Digital (app, online courses), Hybrid models |
| Cost Range | Customized pricing. Schools and districts must contact Soul Shoppe for a quote based on specific needs, number of students, and delivery format. |
| Evidence Level | Research-based and evidence-informed. Backed by over 20 years of implementation data and positive school climate outcomes. |
Pros:
- Proven, research-based curriculum with a long history of success.
- Highly flexible delivery options cater to diverse school needs and budgets.
- Focuses on building psychological safety and empathy for the entire school community.
- Exceptional credibility through founder expertise and high-profile partnerships.
Cons:
- Pricing is not publicly listed, requiring direct contact for a quote, which can slow down initial budget planning.
- Primarily designed for K-8, so high schools may need to seek more age-specific resources.
Soul Shoppe is an excellent choice for elementary and middle schools ready to invest in a holistic, relationship-centered SEL partner. Its blend of direct instruction, community engagement, and flexible programming makes it one of the most effective and adaptable sel programs for elementary schools available today.
Website: https://www.soulshoppe.org
2. Second Step (Committee for Children)
As one of the most widely recognized and research-backed SEL programs for elementary schools, Second Step from the Committee for Children offers a robust, turnkey solution for schools seeking a structured and comprehensive curriculum. The platform is designed for easy implementation, providing educators with everything they need to deliver consistent, high-quality social-emotional instruction right out of the box.
Second Step stands out for its clarity and ease of use. Each lesson is meticulously scripted and supported by engaging songs, puppets (for younger grades), and short video clips that capture student attention. This structured approach ensures fidelity of implementation across classrooms and grade levels, a key factor for achieving school-wide impact.
Key Features and Implementation
The program is organized into grade-specific units that align with core SEL domains. For example, a kindergarten lesson might feature a puppet who is feeling angry. The teacher guides students to help the puppet identify the feeling ("He's mad!") and then practice a calming strategy together, like taking "belly breaths." This directly builds self-awareness and self-management skills.
- Delivery Formats: Schools can choose between grade-banded physical classroom kits (Early Learning–Grade 5) or a more flexible digital license (K–8). The digital format includes streaming media, online training, and easier access to materials.
- Specialized Units: Beyond the core curriculum, Second Step offers crucial add-on units for Bullying Prevention and Child Protection, allowing schools to address specific safety concerns within the same framework.
- Language Support: Recognizing diverse student populations, the program provides Spanish-language resources for students and families from Early Learning through Grade 3.
Practical Tip: Use the provided family communication letters (available in multiple languages) after completing each unit. For instance, after a unit on problem-solving, a parent might get a letter suggesting they ask their child, "What was a problem you solved at school today? What steps did you take?" This reinforces learning by connecting classroom skills to home life.
Program Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grade Band | Early Learning–Grade 8 |
| Format | Physical classroom kits (PK–5) or school/district-wide digital license (K–8) |
| Cost Range | Kits start around $300-$500 per grade; digital licenses are tiered by enrollment and term (request a quote). |
| Evidence | Strong (ESSA Level 1). Meets CASEL's "SELect" program designation. |
| Best Fit For | Schools and districts looking for a proven, structured, and easy-to-implement program with extensive support resources. |
While the upfront cost for a full-school implementation can be significant, the program's strong evidence base and comprehensive support often provide a clear return on investment. The website allows for single-site purchases of kits, but district leaders should contact the sales team directly for quotes on digital licenses or multi-site discounts to navigate the various product bundles effectively. Understanding the foundational concepts of SEL can also help educators maximize the program's impact; you can explore the five core SEL competencies to deepen your team's knowledge.
Learn more at: store.secondstep.org
3. Harmony Academy (National University) – Harmony SEL
Harmony SEL, offered through National University's Harmony Academy, presents an incredibly accessible and relationship-focused approach to social-emotional learning. What makes this program a standout choice is its no-cost digital curriculum, removing the significant financial barrier that can prevent schools from adopting high-quality SEL programs for elementary schools. It is designed to foster positive peer relationships and build an inclusive classroom environment from the very start.
The program's core philosophy centers on connection and communication, using specific routines and activities to build community. Rather than just teaching concepts, Harmony SEL integrates practices like "Meet Up" and "Buddy Up," which are daily and weekly routines where students engage in structured, collaborative conversations and activities. This emphasis on peer-to-peer interaction makes the learning practical and immediately applicable.
Key Features and Implementation
Harmony’s lessons are built around five key themes: Diversity and Inclusion, Empathy and Critical Thinking, Communication, Problem Solving, and Peer Relationships. For example, a "Buddy Up" activity might pair students to discuss a story where a character feels misunderstood. They would use provided question cards like, "How could the other character have listened better?" to practice active listening and perspective-taking, directly building empathy and communication skills.
- Delivery Formats: The primary format is a comprehensive, no-cost digital curriculum for Pre-K–6, accessible after a simple online registration. This includes lesson plans, activities, stories, and games.
- Professional Development: Harmony Academy offers a wealth of support, including live and on-demand online training sessions and product demos. This ensures educators feel confident implementing the curriculum with fidelity.
- University Backing: Being part of National University, the program is grounded in research and benefits from district-facing initiatives and partnerships for schools seeking deeper engagement.
Practical Tip: Fully commit to the "Meet Up" and "Buddy Up" routines. For "Meet Up," start each day with a greeting and a sharing question like, "What is one thing you are looking forward to today?" This simple, consistent ritual builds community and gives every student a voice, setting a positive tone for learning.
Program Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grade Band | Pre-K–Grade 6 |
| Format | No-cost digital curriculum and online portal. Print materials are also available for purchase. |
| Cost Range | Free for the core digital Pre-K–6 curriculum and online training. Deeper, customized professional development for districts may have associated costs. |
| Evidence | Promising (ESSA Level 3). Recognized by CASEL as a "Promising Program." |
| Best Fit For | Schools and districts seeking a high-quality, research-informed, no-cost core SEL curriculum, especially those prioritizing community-building and peer relationships. |
The low barrier to entry makes Harmony SEL an excellent choice for any school, but particularly for those with limited budgets. The focus on building a strong classroom community is a core strength; you can find more ideas for classroom community-building activities that pair well with Harmony’s philosophy. While the program is free, schools should plan to invest time in the provided training to maximize its impact and understand its relationship-centered approach.
Learn more at: harmony-academy.org
4. PATHS Program (PATHS Program Holding LLC)
The PATHS (Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies) Program is a highly respected, evidence-based curriculum recognized as one of the cornerstone SEL programs for elementary schools. It provides a comprehensive, classroom-based model designed to promote emotional literacy, self-control, and positive interpersonal problem-solving skills, all critical components for a healthy school climate.
PATHS stands out for its deep focus on emotional vocabulary and a structured problem-solving framework. The curriculum uses concrete tools like "Feeling Faces" cards and fully scripted lessons that guide teachers through complex topics with clarity and confidence. This structured approach helps ensure that all students receive consistent instruction in core emotional regulation and social skills.
Key Features and Implementation
The program is delivered through grade-specific classroom implementation packages that contain all necessary materials. A typical first-grade lesson might involve introducing a new feeling like "frustrated" using a Feeling Face card. The teacher then reads a story about a character feeling frustrated and guides students to practice the "Control Signals" technique (a three-step process of stopping, taking a long deep breath, and saying the problem) before discussing a solution.
- Delivery Formats: The program is primarily sold as physical grade-level classroom implementation packages, which include manuals, posters, feeling cards, and other hands-on materials.
- Training Included: Every classroom package now includes access to a self-paced online instructor training module, removing a common barrier to effective implementation. Optional on-site workshops can be purchased for more in-depth, hands-on professional development.
- Bilingual Resources: To support diverse classroom communities, the program offers home-connection resources and other materials in both English and Spanish.
Practical Tip: Consistently use the "Problem-Solving Steps" posters during class meetings and even for minor classroom conflicts. When students have a disagreement on the playground, guide them through the steps on the poster: 1. Stop and calm down, 2. Say the problem and how you feel, 3. Set a positive goal, etc. This repetition embeds the framework into their daily interactions.
Program Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grade Band | Preschool–Grade 5 |
| Format | Grade-specific physical classroom kits with included online training; optional on-site professional development available. |
| Cost Range | Classroom kits are priced per grade, typically ranging from $700-$900. Purchases can be made directly from the website's e-commerce store. |
| Evidence | Strong (ESSA Level 1). Meets CASEL's "SELect" program designation. |
| Best Fit For | Schools seeking a structured, evidence-based curriculum with tangible, hands-on materials and a strong focus on emotional vocabulary. |
While a full-school implementation requires purchasing multiple grade-level packages, the inclusion of online training adds significant value and lowers the initial barrier to entry. The program’s emphasis on explicit instruction makes it an excellent choice for building foundational skills. Educators can enhance this learning by incorporating supplemental emotional intelligence activities for kids to provide even more opportunities for practice.
Learn more at: shop.pathsprogram.com
5. Positive Action
Positive Action offers a unique, philosophy-driven approach among SEL programs for elementary schools, framing social-emotional learning through the intuitive concept that positive thoughts lead to positive actions, which in turn lead to positive feelings. This Pre-K through Grade 6 curriculum is delivered via comprehensive, ready-to-use classroom kits, making it a straightforward choice for schools that prefer tangible, hands-on materials for daily instruction.
What sets Positive Action apart is its spiraling curriculum built around six core units: Self-Concept, Positive Actions for Body and Mind, Managing Yourself Responsibly, Treating Others the Way You Like to be Treated, Telling Yourself the Truth, and Improving Yourself Continually. The lessons are brief (around 15 minutes), scripted, and designed for easy integration into the school day, ensuring teachers can consistently reinforce these foundational concepts.
Key Features and Implementation
The program is structured with grade-specific kits that include everything from teacher's manuals and posters to puppets and activity sheets. For example, a first-grade lesson might involve reading a story from the kit about being a good friend. The teacher then facilitates a discussion about the positive action of sharing, connecting it to the positive feeling of happiness that comes from making a friend feel included. This concrete, action-oriented approach helps young learners internalize complex social skills.
- Delivery Formats: The primary format is physical classroom kits (Pre-K–6), available as starter, combo, or refresher packages. Select kits also include access to Pasela, the embedded digital license for supplementary online resources.
- Transparent Purchasing: The website is designed for school procurement, with clear, itemized pricing and district-friendly options like purchase order acceptance and multi-address shipping.
- Comprehensive Support: Beyond the materials, the program is backed by strong customer support via phone and email, with clear policies for returns and exchanges posted online.
Practical Tip: Use the program's "reinforcement activities," like the provided coloring sheets or take-home notes, to create a bridge between school and home. When a student demonstrates a positive action, like helping a classmate clean up a spill, a teacher can send home a pre-made "Positive Action Note" celebrating it. This provides powerful positive reinforcement and keeps parents informed and engaged.
Program Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grade Band | Pre-K–Grade 12 (with a strong focus on elementary Pre-K–6) |
| Format | Physical classroom kits with hands-on materials. An embedded digital license (Pasela) is included with some kit options. |
| Cost Range | Kits are priced per grade, starting around $400 for a refresher kit to over $1,200 for a deluxe combo kit. Pricing is transparent on the website. |
| Evidence | Strong (ESSA Level 1). Listed on the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP). |
| Best Fit For | Schools and districts seeking a scripted, kit-based program with a strong evidence base and a simple, unifying philosophy that is easy for students and staff to grasp. |
While purchasing full K-6 coverage requires buying multiple individual kits, the transparent pricing and clear kit contents on the website simplify the budgeting process for administrators. The structured, 15-minute lessons make it highly adaptable for teachers with packed schedules, ensuring that consistent SEL instruction can happen without significant disruption to core academic time.
Learn more at: www.positiveaction.net
6. CharacterStrong (PurposeFull People for Elementary)
CharacterStrong offers a dynamic and holistic approach to social-emotional learning, integrating character development directly into its framework. Their elementary curriculum, known as PurposeFull People, is designed to build not just SEL competencies but also essential character traits like kindness, respect, and perseverance. This dual focus makes it one of the most comprehensive SEL programs for elementary schools for leaders aiming to cultivate a positive and proactive school culture.
The digital curriculum is built around a clear, vertically aligned scope and sequence from Pre-K to 5th grade, ensuring that skills are scaffolded year after year. CharacterStrong stands out by providing ongoing support, professional development, and continuous product updates, treating implementation as a long-term partnership rather than a one-time purchase. This model supports whole-school adoption and helps sustain the program's impact over time.
Key Features and Implementation
PurposeFull People delivers daily, bite-sized lessons that are easy for teachers to integrate into their existing routines. For example, a first-grade lesson on courage might involve a short "Courageous Conversation" prompt where students share a time they felt brave, such as trying a new food or speaking in front of the class. This is followed by a brief activity practicing how to support a friend who is feeling scared, such as saying, "You can do it!"
- Delivery Format: The curriculum is fully digital and sold via a per-building (site) license, which includes access for all staff, implementation support, and professional development resources.
- Tiered Support: The platform includes tools and strategies for both Tier 1 (universal) and Tier 2 (targeted) interventions, helping schools meet the needs of all students.
- Whole-Child Focus: Lessons explicitly connect SEL skills (like self-awareness) with character traits (like honesty), providing a more rounded approach to student development.
Practical Tip: Utilize the "Character Dares" included in the curriculum. These are simple, actionable challenges (e.g., "Give a genuine compliment to three different people today") that encourage students to practice character traits in authentic ways throughout the school day, moving learning beyond the lesson itself.
Program Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grade Band | Pre-K–Grade 5 (with separate curricula for Middle and High School) |
| Format | Digital curriculum delivered through a school-wide site license. |
| Cost Range | Pricing is based on school enrollment and requires a custom quote from the sales team. It is not available for single-classroom purchase. |
| Evidence | Promising (ESSA Level 3). Has an evidence profile available through the Evidence for ESSA clearinghouse. |
| Best Fit For | Schools and districts committed to a whole-school implementation model that pairs SEL with character development and values ongoing support. |
The site-license model makes CharacterStrong less suitable for individual teachers seeking a resource, but it is an excellent fit for school leaders who want to build a unified, campus-wide culture. Because pricing is not publicly listed, administrators should connect with the CharacterStrong team to get a detailed quote and discuss the robust implementation support and professional development included in the package.
Learn more at: characterstrong.com
7. 7 Mindsets
Built on a foundation of mindset-based learning, 7 Mindsets offers a distinct approach to social-emotional development. Unlike programs that focus solely on discrete skills, this platform integrates SEL into a framework of empowering beliefs, making it one of the more unique SEL programs for elementary schools. It is designed as a digital-first, teacher-led curriculum that requires minimal prep time, allowing educators to focus more on delivery and student connection.
7 Mindsets stands out for its cohesive Pre-K to 12th-grade pathway, which provides districts with a vertically aligned SEL language and framework. For elementary schools, the digital portal is packed with engaging, age-appropriate video content, lesson plans, and supplemental activities that are easy to access and implement. The focus is on inspiring students with core principles like "Everything is Possible" and "Live to Give."
Key Features and Implementation
The program is structured around its seven core mindsets, with each grade level exploring them through targeted lessons. For example, a second-grade lesson on the "100% Accountable" mindset might involve watching a short animated video where a character blames others for a spilled drink. The teacher then leads a discussion about taking responsibility, followed by a role-playing activity where students practice saying, "It was my mistake, and I can help clean it up." This directly builds self-management and responsible decision-making skills.
- Delivery Format: The curriculum is fully digital, with a robust online portal that houses all lessons, videos, activities, and teacher resources.
- Minimal Prep Time: Lessons are intentionally designed for quick preparation, often requiring just 10 minutes for a teacher to review before delivery. The platform also includes a large library of supplemental activities for extension.
- Data and Progress Monitoring: School and district leaders can use the Leader Dashboard to track implementation fidelity, view usage data, and monitor progress on key SEL competencies.
Practical Tip: Leverage the "Mindset of the Month" school-wide theme. For the "Live to Give" mindset, a school could organize a simple canned food drive or have students make thank-you cards for cafeteria staff. This translates an abstract concept into concrete, community-building actions.
Program Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grade Band | Pre-K–12 (with specific K–5 courses) |
| Format | Fully digital, web-based curriculum with a comprehensive resource library |
| Cost Range | Quote-based. Schools and districts must contact the sales team for a live demo and customized pricing based on enrollment. |
| Evidence | Moderate (ESSA Level 2). Meets CASEL's "SELect" program designation. |
| Best Fit For | Districts seeking a vertically aligned K-12 solution and schools that prefer a digital-first, low-prep, mindset-based approach. |
While the quote-based pricing requires direct contact, this allows for a tailored implementation plan. The branded language of the "seven mindsets" may require some initial professional development to align with a district's existing SEL vocabulary. However, for schools ready to embrace a positive, asset-based framework, 7 Mindsets provides a comprehensive and engaging digital solution that supports both students and educators.
Learn more at: 7mindsets.com
7 Elementary SEL Programs Compared
| Program | Implementation complexity | Resource requirements | Expected outcomes | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soul Shoppe | Moderate — customizable campus- or classroom-level delivery | Variable mix of workshops, coaching, digital courses and app; custom pricing | Increased self-regulation, empathy, safety and community connection | K–8 schools and youth organizations seeking relationship-centered, flexible SEL | Evidence-informed experiential curriculum, 20+ years, community events and partnerships |
| Second Step (Committee for Children) | Low–Moderate — turnkey, grade-banded kits or district license | Physical kits or district digital license, training included; costs scale by enrollment | Standardized SEL skills, bullying prevention and child protection awareness | Early Learning and K–5 classrooms or districts wanting turnkey implementation | Robust implementation support, wide U.S. availability, multiple delivery formats |
| Harmony Academy (Harmony SEL) | Low — core digital curriculum available after signup | No-cost digital curriculum (signup), optional paid trainings/supports | Core Pre-K–6 SEL skill development and professional learning | Districts seeking a low-barrier, university-backed SEL core | Free digital access, university backing, live and on-demand trainings |
| PATHS Program | Moderate — grade-specific, fully scripted classroom packages | Manuals, posters, feeling-face cards, student/parent materials; online training; optional onsite workshops | Structured lessons, emotional vocabulary, consistent classroom routines | Elementary classrooms needing scripted, concrete SEL tools | Fully scripted lessons with concrete classroom materials and included online training |
| Positive Action | Moderate — grade-banded kits with embedded digital option | Hands-on starter/combo kits, embedded Pasela digital license option, transparent online ordering | Integrated SEL and character education across grades Pre-K–6 | Districts requiring clear pricing and procurement-friendly ordering | Transparent, itemized pricing and district-friendly purchasing options |
| CharacterStrong (PurposeFull People) | Moderate — site licensing for whole-school digital curriculum | Per-building license, PD and implementation supports; pricing by quote | Grade-aligned SEL plus character traits, supports Tier 1/2 implementation | Schools/districts planning whole-school adoption with ongoing updates | Evidence profile (Evidence for ESSA), continuous product improvements, site licensing model |
| 7 Mindsets | Low–Moderate — teacher-led digital lessons with minimal prep | Digital curriculum license (quote), leader dashboard and assessment tools | Mindset-focused SEL growth, measurable progress and K–12 pathway | Districts wanting low-prep lessons, data monitoring and K–12 alignment | Short teacher prep, large content library, progress monitoring/dashboard tools |
Making Your Choice: Next Steps for a More Connected Campus
Navigating the landscape of SEL programs for elementary schools can feel overwhelming, but the journey to find the right fit is a critical investment in your students' futures. We've explored a range of powerful options, from the experiential, peer-led model of Soul Shoppe to the structured, research-backed curricula of Second Step and the PATHS Program. We've seen how programs like Harmony SEL foster peer relationships, while Positive Action and CharacterStrong integrate character development into daily academics. Finally, 7 Mindsets offers a unique approach focused on shifting student perspectives toward resilience and success.
The most important takeaway is this: the "best" program doesn't exist in a vacuum. The most effective SEL initiative is the one that seamlessly aligns with your school's unique culture, student demographics, staff capacity, and community values. A curriculum is just a tool; real change happens when that tool is wielded with intention by a committed and well-supported team. True social-emotional learning transcends lesson plans and becomes woven into the very fabric of your school's environment, visible in every hallway interaction, classroom discussion, and playground resolution.
Your Action Plan for Selecting an SEL Program
Choosing a program requires a thoughtful, collaborative process. Rushing this decision can lead to poor adoption and wasted resources. Instead, treat it as a strategic initiative. Here is a step-by-step guide to help your team move forward with clarity and confidence.
Assemble a Diverse SEL Committee: Your first step is to gather a team that represents your entire school community. This should include administrators, classroom teachers from various grade levels, school counselors, support staff (like paraprofessionals or cafeteria monitors), and, crucially, parents. This diversity ensures that the chosen program will address needs from multiple perspectives and gain widespread buy-in.
Define Your "Why" and Identify Core Needs: Before looking at any specific curriculum, your committee must clarify your school’s goals. Are you primarily focused on reducing disciplinary incidents and bullying? Do you need to improve classroom management and on-task behavior? Or is your goal to build a more profound sense of belonging and empathy among students?
- Practical Example: A school might find that post-recess conflicts are their biggest challenge. Their "why" becomes "to equip students with the skills to solve minor peer conflicts independently." This focus immediately helps them evaluate programs based on their conflict-resolution components.
Assess Your School's Capacity and Resources: Be realistic about what your school can support. This assessment involves several key factors:
- Budget: Consider not just the initial purchase price but also ongoing costs for training, materials, and potential renewals.
- Time: How much instructional time can you realistically dedicate to SEL each week? Some programs require daily 15-minute lessons, while others are more flexible.
- Staffing: Who will lead the implementation? Is it the classroom teacher, the counselor, or a dedicated SEL coordinator? Ensure you have the personnel to support the program effectively.
- Training: Evaluate the professional development offered. Does the program provide initial training, ongoing coaching, and resources for new staff members? Strong training is non-negotiable for successful implementation.
Shortlist and Deeply Evaluate Programs: Using your defined needs and capacity assessment, narrow your choices to two or three top contenders from this list or others you discover. Request demos, review sample lessons, and speak with representatives. Ask for references from schools with similar demographics to yours. This is the time to dig into the details and see how each program would look and feel in your classrooms.
Pilot the Program (If Possible): The best way to know if a program works is to try it. Consider running a small-scale pilot with a few volunteer teachers across different grade levels. This allows you to gather direct feedback from staff and students, identify potential implementation challenges, and make a final, evidence-based decision before a full-scale rollout. This step can prevent costly mistakes and ensure your chosen program truly resonates with your school community.
Ultimately, selecting one of the many available SEL programs for elementary schools is the first step on a transformative journey. The real work begins with implementation, creating a culture where every adult in the building models empathy and every child feels seen, heard, and valued. This commitment is what turns a curriculum into a catalyst for a more connected, compassionate, and successful campus.
Ready to bring an SEL program to your school that focuses on empathy and conflict resolution through powerful, student-centered experiences? Soul Shoppe offers dynamic in-school programs and assemblies that empower students with practical tools to stop bullying and build a kinder school climate. Explore how Soul Shoppe can help you create a more peaceful and connected community.