After reading the comments on this forum, it occurs to me that there is a great misunderstaning about what SEL is and what it is not.  I have seen the positive impact firsthand of SEL implementation with integrity.  Students have a clearer understanding of what their strengths and needs are and how to advocate for those needs.  I have seen students get better at making connections with others and being intentional about getting to know the kids in their class in order to develop a peer support network.  I have seen students make things better with others when they make mistakes. There is some work to be done to revise the standards so that they more accurately represent the work that is currently being done.  SEL is not moral or character education.  That is the role of the family.  SEL provides opportunities for students and adults to reflect on their own strengths and needs, while also learning about the strengths and needs of others in order to make connections, build relationships, and make effective decisions.  SEL is the embodiment of the Profile of a VA Graduate and the skills that students learn through SEL have been identified as crucial to being an effective citizen and employee.