Understanding Social and Emotional Learning in Education: Insights from Michelle Gill

In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Jeff Bradbury and Diane Manser discuss the critical role of social and emotional learning (SEL) in education with guest Michelle Gill. They explore the importance of understanding behavior as communication, the need for SEL in today's complex environment, and practical strategies for teachers to implement SEL in their classrooms. The conversation emphasizes the ongoing nature of SEL development for both educators and students, and the necessity of creating supportive environments for effective learning. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today! Conversation Takeaways SEL enhances the well-being of both educators and students. Understanding behavior as communication is crucial for effective teaching. Teachers need to be open to SEL practices to improve classroom dynamics. SEL is essential in today's stressful and complex educational environment. Professional development in SEL is necessary for teacher efficacy. Empowering students with emotional regulation skills starts as early as kindergarten. The implementation of SEL requires a collaborative approach among educators. Teachers should focus on strengths and positive behaviors in the classroom. SEL practices can lead to better academic outcomes for students. The work of SEL is ongoing and requires continuous learning and adaptation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Social and Emotional Learning 03:08 The Importance of SEL in Education 06:10 Understanding Behavior as Communication 10:03 The Need for SEL Today 13:55 Overcoming Resistance to SEL 17:05 Practical SEL Strategies for Teachers 21:02 Consultation and Support for SEL Implementation 25:09 Empowering Students in SEL 28:59 The Ongoing Nature of SEL Development 33:00 Final Thoughts on SEL and Well-being About our Guest: Michelle Gill is an independent consultant with over 23 years of experience in education, specializing in coaching, consulting, and professional development to enhance the social and emotional well-being of educators and students. With 14 years of classroom experience in the School District of Philadelphia and Fairfax County Public Schools, Michelle transitioned to the nonprofit sector, where she served as Director of Consulting and Certification at the Center for Responsive Schools, guiding schools through social and emotional learning (SEL) initiatives. In 2021, she became the Coordinator of Student Services for Social, Emotional, and Academic Learning (SEAL) at Centennial School District, leading district-wide SEL implementation over three years. A member of the SEL Fellows Academy with CASEL, Michelle holds a Social and Emotional Intelligence Coaching certification from ISEI. She is passionate about empowering education professionals to build social & emotional intelligence and well-being, individually and systemically. Links of Interest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-gill-524505204/ Follow Our Podcast And Subscribe View All Episodes Apple Podcasts Spotify Follow Our Host Jeff Bradbury |