The Role of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Harmony Academy recognizes that promoting well-being and creating an inclusive environment requires intentional strategies. Our social and emotional learning (SEL) resources play a pivotal role in enhancing students’ overall sense of belonging and desire to be at school. Integrating SEL principles into daily lessons empowers students to navigate their emotions, build strong relationships, and cultivate a positive school culture.

Addressing Chronic Absenteeism Through Connection

When students feel safe and supported, they are more likely to attend school consistently. That’s why Harmony offers SEL resources, such as Quick Connection Cards, to promote emotionally healthy relationships among peers and educators. This approach can not only enhance attendance but also encourage active participation in the learning process, paving the way for academic success.

Creating a Sense of Belonging in School

The well-being of students is at the forefront of our mission. Social and emotional learning activities, such as Mindful Minute or Relaxation Station, teach students vital skills for managing emotions and resolving conflicts peacefully. This proactive approach can not only diminish instances of bullying but also equip students with tools to advocate for themselves and others.

Quick Insights from Harmony EAG Advisors

We asked our Harmony Educator Advisor Group (EAG) to share what strategies and resources they use to support thriving healthy classroom environments and how they can be proactive when it comes to addressing bullying in the classroom.

Q: October is National Bullying Prevention Month. What can educators do to prevent bullying from becoming an issue in their schools? How can they keep students excited about coming to school to learn every day?

A: By incorporating SEL in every lesson and activity, we can alleviate many tensions that can occur in the classroom between students. Open communication and fostering a team environment allows kids to connect!  

— Jennifer Wienke, Program Development Coordinator, Fairbanks, Alaska

Q: What strategies do you use to keep the sense of community strong and minimize bullying at your school?

A: We use Quick Connection Cards to continue to build community. Our administrator includes anti-bullying messages during morning announcements. We also have Buddy Readers with the middle schoolers reading to K–2nd students to enhance the family community feel where we all take care of each other.  

— Josie McClain, 2nd Grade Teacher, Gila Bend, Arizona

Q: What strategies do you use to keep the sense of community strong and minimize bullying at your school?

A: Preventing bullying involves creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. At our school, we establish clear behavior expectations and emphasize kindness through daily interactions and classroom discussions. Harmony lessons help students manage emotions and communicate effectively. Building strong relationships allows me to understand their needs and provide support.

— Allison Robb, Dean of Academics, Tucson, Arizona

Q: What strategies do you use to keep the sense of community strong and minimize bullying at your school?

A: In 5th grade, I work with my students to develop leadership skills and teach them how to stand up for others without becoming bullies. I love using the Battle the Bullybot in the Harmony Game Room App, which helps students develop the language necessary for teamwork and communication. 

— Connie Michael, 5th Grade Teacher, Billings, Montana

3 Steps to Address Bullying

Harmony is always on a mission to foster an inclusive school environment where every student feels valued and connected. With Harmony resources, educators and school leaders can reduce bullying, establish chronic absenteeism interventions, and promote well-being in the classroom. Here are three ways to do it: 

1. Incorporate SEL in Classrooms: A 2022 analysis of the Harmony Curriculum (Third Edition) found that the program promoted prosocial behaviors (88% effective or very effective), positive communication skills (93% effective or very effective), emotional and behavior management (86% effective or very effective and solves problems that arise in the classroom (92% effective or very effective) (Harmony Academy).
2. Provide Ongoing Professional Development: Harmony offers the Harmony Leader Certificate and the Harmony Teacher Certificate. Both certificates provide the key structures and components to support healthy, thriving classrooms. Teachers and school leaders can earn Continuing Education Units, and use them toward an advanced degree at National University.  
3. Strengthen Parent-School Bonds: Schools that are addressing a surge in chronically absent students often find success when they focus on strengthening the bonds they have with the parent community. To leverage Harmony, incorporate activities like “Harmony Meet Ups with Parents” at family events or gratitude journaling to promote positive connections and foster a sense of belonging within your school community. Additional resources for parents are shared in this recent article.

Citations:

Kaiser Family Foundation. (2022). Mental health and substance use: A guide for youth and families. Retrieved from https://www.kff.org

Return to Learn Tracker. (2022). Chronic absenteeism in the 2021-2022 school year. Retrieved from https://www.returntolearntracker.net

National Institutes of Health. (2023). Trends in suicide among preteens in the United States. Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Youth risk behavior surveillance. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov

Harmony Academy. (2022). A case study of Harmony Thir