K-12 Education

How to Support the Whole Student

April 13, 2017  • National Commission on Social, Emotional, and Academic Development

What does it look like when schools and communities support the whole student? On May 1st and 2nd, the Aspen Institute’s National Commission on Social, Emotional, and Academic Development will visit Cleveland to learn how its schools are prioritizing students’ social and emotional growth alongside academic learning. The district has become a trailblazer for this approach after a 2007 school shooting reinforced the need to provide students with a safe learning environment and teach them important skills such as recognizing their emotions, managing conflict, and making responsible decisions.

We know Cleveland isn’t the only place doing this essential work, which is why we want to hear from you.

Share Your Story

We’re inviting you to share your stories and examples of how schools and communities are supporting the whole student. We’ll compile your examples and share them with the National Commission. On Twitter, provide your input using the hashtag #TellNCSEAD. On Facebook, write a post using the hashtag. You’re also welcome to share your stories in the comment section below. Here are a couple of questions to get started:

  • How can schools help develop students who can work in teams, stick with tough tasks, and manage their emotions?
  • How can schools create safe and welcoming learning environments?
  • How do schools partner with families and communities to support students’ social and emotional development?
  • What challenges do schools face in supporting students’ comprehensive development?
  • What are the biggest misperceptions about social and emotional development?

Spread the Word

Help us get the word out and hear from others! Here are some sample social media posts you can share to encourage participation.

  • The @AspenSEAD Commission is crowdsourcing examples of how schools and communities can support the whole student. Share your story using #TellNCSEAD.
  • Calling all educators: How are you supporting students’ social and emotional development? What do you need to do this well? Share your ideas using #TellNCSEAD.
  • Calling all parents: How is your child’s school supporting the whole student? Share your story using #TellNCSEAD.