Update: Social Emotional Learning Bill

I originally posted information about House Bill 1162-2009-10, providing for social emotional learning in public schools, on January 30.

A substitute version of the bill was voted out of the House Education Committee on February 10. The new version focuses on starting a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) account under the Secretary of State for funds to be deposited from both public and private entities. As they are available, the funds will be administered by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to provide SEL resources to Washington's schools.

A public hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, 8:00 a.m.

Social Emotional Learning bill

Several Washington State Representatives, including northeast Seattle's Phyllis Gutierrez Kenney (46th District), have proposed a Social Emotional Learning bill, HB1162.

According to the bill, Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is defined as age-appropriate behavioral and emotional management, relationship skills, conflict resolution, interpersonal communication, cooperation, decision-making, and planning. Life Skills Training, the evidence-based drug/alcohol prevention program being implemented at Eckstein Middle School, is an example of a curriculum teaching social emotional skills to students.

The purpose of NB1162 is to support and provide leadership for incorporating SEL into basic education.