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Social Emotional Learning and School Mental Health Improvement Plans

HENDERSON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Office of Student Services

Social Emotional Learning and School Mental Health Improvement Plans

Social and Emotional Learning as outlined in the North Carolina Standard Course of Study
In the context of school, social and emotional learning includes:

  • Illustrating personal responsibility in a variety of settings and situations,
  • Understanding the relationship between education achievement and career success,
  • Using effective communication to express and cope with emotions,
  • Explaining the importance of showing respect for oneself and respect and empathy for others,
  • Explaining the impact of self-direction, initiative, and self-control on interpersonal relationships
  • Using cooperation and communication skills to achieve common goals
    View the NCDPI Healthful Living & Guidance Essential Standards Crosswalk

The Henderson County Public Schools School Mental Health Improvement Plan (SMHI)

In July 2021, Henderson County Public Schools submitted its SMHI plan to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.

Note:  In September 2021, the Henderson County Board of Education approved the HCPS SMHI plan with accompanying presentation.

Important dates related to the School Mental Health Improvement Process in North Carolina:

In June 2020, the North Carolina State Legislature passed Senate Bill 476 and Session Law 2020-7.  They require that all Public School Units formulate plans to improve School Mental Health.

In November 2020, The North Carolina State Board of Education passed State Board Policy SHLT-003.  It contains more specific information about how Public Schools can satisfy the requirements of SB 476 and Session Law 2002-7.

In April 2021, the North Carolina General Assembly passed Session Law 2021-7 and HB 82, which required that we provide “In-person social-emotional learning supports for all students in the program.

According to the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is an integral part of education and human development.

View CASEL Fundamentals of SEL

CASEL’s Definition of Social and Emotional Learning

SEL is the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.