These SEL standards are un-American and inappropriate. As a mother of 3 school-aged children, I find this plan deeply concerning.  The primary focus of schools should be offering excellence in academics: fundamentals of Science, Math, Social Studies, and Language Arts.  Through this SEL plan, the VDOE is demonstrating their perceived moral superiority, which is a massive overstep of their role.  Teaching how to manage and understand one's emotions, morals and values, is the responsibility of parents and families-- NOT the public education system!

This SEL plan clearly indicates severe incompetence and misguided line of thinking at the highest level of the Virginia Education Department.  The VDOE focus away from academics and more toward feelings, what constitutes biases and injustices in society, and push towards dangerous “group think” is unacceptable.  It is causing many families (mine included) to find alternatives to public education.  Although we want our hard earned tax dollars to contribute to honorable schools, this kind of required curriculum is making it evident those with privilege will choose school communities that offer rigorous academics led by leaders who respect family values.  

It is my sincerest hope that enough teachers, parents, families, school board members and administrators across the state reject this nonsensical plan to appropriate family values.  Leave social and emotional guidance where it belongs -- in individual’s homes!