At the March 22, 2022 EWSD School Board meeting, Dylan McNamara, Director Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) and Wellness and Co-Director of Student Support Services, spoke about the fall 2021 progress toward meeting the EWSD SEL standards. The Essex Reporter covered the story of the EWSD’s work around SEL in its March 25 edition.

Throughout the 21-22 school year, teachers observed students' growth and provided screenings related to specific social & emotional learning (SEL) skills. Students were identified for additional support in certain skill areas, and all families received feedback as to how students are progressing toward the SEL essential standards established for their grade level. 

The Devereux Student Strength Assessment (DESSA) was first utilized in October 2021 to screen students and assessment data will be shared with families via progress reports throughout the year.

SEL Director & Coaches Presentation to the School Board (December 6, 2022)

This is the video for the December 6 School Board meeting in which Dylan McNamara, Director of Social Emotional Learning & Wellness, and several of the SEL Coaches shared updates related to the ongoing work on this issue in the district.

School Board Meeting Update on Social Emotional Learning (March 22, 2022)

October 2021 SEL Assessment Update (December 14, 2021)

The Board heard a report about Social & Emotional Learning efforts in the District, including a presentation about the first assessment conducted in October across all grades. 

Social and Emotional Learning in the EWSD (August 20, 2019)

This presentation explains more about the reasoning and research behind the EWSD's move to focus on social and emotional competencies in our schools.