Enhancing Academic Success in TVUSD Schools Through SEL and a Mental Health Focus
As a candidate for the TVUSD School Board in Trustee Area 2, I am committed to addressing the critical issues that impact our students' academic success. The academic performance in Temecula schools is a priority, and it's essential that we improve these areas.
A pivotal strategy for enhancing academic outcomes in TVUSD is to prioritize Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and mental health, alongside addressing chronic absenteeism. By concentrating on these factors, and others, we can raise academic scores, close the gap for disadvantaged youth, and better prepare our students for the real world.
The Connection Between SEL, Mental Health, and Academic Achievement
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process of developing essential skills such as emotional regulation, positive behavior, and strong peer relationships. These skills are crucial for students' success both academically and personally. Research has consistently shown that students who participate in SEL programs exhibit improved academic performance, better behavior, and increased emotional well-being.
For instance, a study by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) found that students involved in SEL programs showed an 11 percentile point gain in academic achievement compared to their peers who did not participate in such programs. Additionally, SEL helps students develop skills like goal-setting, time management, and self-awareness, all of which contribute to academic success. These “soft skills” are becoming even more desirable in the workforce and are often cited, among other SEL skills, as the most important when hiring new employees.
Addressing Mental Health and Chronic Absenteeism
Mental health is another critical area that significantly impacts students' academic performance. In the midst of an unprecedented mental health crisis among our nation’s youth, it is imperative to support our students' mental health needs. A recent study led by Yale Child Study Center confirmed that SEL significantly improves students' academic performance, well-being, and perceptions of school safety. Students who participated in SEL programs reported less anxiety, stress, and depression, contributing to a more conducive learning environment.
Chronic absenteeism is a major factor affecting academic performance in TVUSD. When students are frequently absent, they miss out on crucial instructional time, making it difficult for them to keep up with their peers. They also struggle with school-connectedness. By focusing on mental health and SEL, we can address some of the underlying causes of absenteeism. Creating a supportive and inclusive school environment can encourage better attendance, thereby improving academic outcomes.
Implementing SEL and Mental Health Initiatives in TVUSD
To enhance academic success in Temecula schools, it is essential to integrate SEL and mental health initiatives into the academic curriculum and school environment. Here are some strategies:
Develop SEL Skills through Lesson Plans: Incorporate SEL into everyday lessons. This can include activities that promote emotional regulation, positive behavior, and strong peer relationships. For example, allow time for class discussions that encourage active listening and respectful communication. With a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) we can use data and evidence-based strategies and curriculum to drive our decisions. By providing targeted instruction, and continuously monitoring the data, we can determine if these interventions are closing the gaps and impacting student outcomes positively.
Create a Positive Classroom Climate: Establish classroom norms and expectations that promote open communication and respect. Use positive reinforcement to recognize students' contributions and achievements.
Collaborate with Mental Health Professionals: Work with school counselors, social workers, and mental health professionals to provide support for students struggling with mental health issues. This can include individual counseling, group therapy sessions, parent consultations, and mental health awareness programs.
Address Chronic Absenteeism: Implement strategies to reduce absenteeism, such as personalized intervention plans for at-risk students, family engagement initiatives, and attendance incentives. Parental involvement can have a positive impact on students academics, attendance, well-being, behavior, effort, and motivation.
The Role of the TVUSD School Board
As a candidate for the TVUSD School Board, I believe that we need to prioritize these areas to see meaningful improvements in our schools' academic performance. By focusing on SEL, mental health, and reducing absenteeism, we can create a more supportive and effective learning environment for ALL students. Schools are not factories, and students are not products. They are human beings, and we need to teach and support the whole child.
Our commitment to these initiatives will not only improve academic outcomes but also prepare our students for the challenges of the real world.
Conclusion
We simply can not reach our goals by focusing on testing and curriculum. The path to improving academic success in TVUSD schools lies in a comprehensive approach that also includes Social Emotional Learning, mental health support, and addressing chronic absenteeism. By prioritizing these areas, we can create a more supportive and effective learning environment, close the achievement gap for disadvantaged students, and prepare all students for a successful future.
The lockdowns had a major impact on multiple aspects of education and the growth of our children. I know. I was there. Not only as a parent struggling with virtual learning and raising two kids, but also as an educator and school social worker trying to understand how to be effective in my role in education. I am the only candidate who has worked full-time with students before, during, and after the pandemic. I have seen the change in behavior, and the shifting landscape of education.
As a dedicated advocate for our students, I am committed to implementing these strategies if elected to the TVUSD School Board in Trustee Area 2. Together, we can make a positive difference in Temecula schools and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
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