Social-emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which students develop fundamental skills for managing emotions, setting goals, showing empathy, establishing positive relationships, and making responsible decisions. SEL programs explicitly teach competencies that support both academic success and lifelong wellbeing: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.

Research consistently shows that effective SEL programs improve student outcomes across multiple domains: higher academic achievement (11-percentile-point gains on average), improved attitudes and behaviors, better stress management, and reduced behavioral problems. SEL supports school climate by equipping students with skills to navigate peer relationships, resolve conflicts constructively, and seek help appropriately.

For charter and private schools, SEL connects directly to retention. Students with strong social-emotional competencies report higher belonging, engage more positively with peers and teachers, and navigate challenges without disengaging. Schools implementing SEL often see improved climate, reduced discipline incidents, and stronger student-teacher relationships—all factors that keep families enrolled.

Schools can measure SEL development and its connection to school climate through pulse surveys asking about stress management, peer relationships, adult support, and sense of belonging over time.