SEL in Oakland

We are in this work together. We believe that:

1. We enter into and engage in our work with our full selves.

2. To do our work well requires us to partner with others in ways that are diverse, inclusive, and equitable—as co-creators, co-designers, and co-constructors. We do “with” rather than “to” or “for.”

3. Building the capacity of others is grounded in recognizing the assets each individual brings into the work.

4. Adults experience a culture of learning that mirrors the conditions that we want for our students.

5. SEL is in service of equity—Creating the conditions for all students and adults to receive what they need to develop to their full academic and social potential.

In Oakland, we define social and emotional learning (SEL) as...

A process through which children and adults develop the fundamental skills for life effectiveness. These are the skills we all need to handle ourselves, our relationships, and our work effectively and ethically. Everyone strengthens their social competencies to connect across race, class, culture, language, gender identity, sexual orientation, learning needs and age.

OUSD has adopted the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning's (CASEL) integrated framework that promotes intrapersonal, interpersonal, and cognitive competence. The five broad, interrelated areas of competence are: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.

In Oakland, SEL is an integral part of a student's education and development, as expressed in OUSD's Graduate Profile.