Statement from NAESP Executive Director Dr. L. Earl Franks, CAE, on the introduction of the Social and Emotional Learning for Families (SELF) Act (H.R. 4626)

“Now more than ever, students require a broad set of skills to succeed in school and in life. Beyond academic outcomes such as reading and math, students need to learn how to work well with others, to think critically, and to embrace the values of honesty and integrity. That is why NAESP supports efforts to boost social and emotional learning programs, which focus on intentionally teaching students these skills as they learn academic content and interact with adults and other students. NAESP applauds the introduction of the Social and Emotional Learning for Families (SELF) Act (H.R. 4626) – cosponsored by Reps. Tim Ryan (D-OH) and Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-FL) – which would make great strides in improving the capacity of educators to support the social and emotional needs of all children."