Belonging and Becoming: The Power of Social and Emotional Learning in High Schools

By: Barbara Cervone and Kathleen Cushman

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Synopsis: Despite growing attention to the importance of grit and other character traits for achievement, developing them in students rarely finds its way into secondary school curricula. Authors Barbara Cervone and Kathleen Cushman investigate the exceptions, telling the stories of five high schools with a national reputation for infusing rigorous academics with social and emotional learning, which results in demonstrable benefits for students. Based on extensive interviews and on-site visits, the book identifies six elements that all of these schools have in common, including advisories and other structural supports for students and teachers; rituals and other means for establishing an intentional, reflective, and respectful community as well as a firm commitment to restorative justice; and a broad and engaging curriculum that includes service learning. Featuring the voices of educators and students alike, Belonging and Becoming not only shows how these schools stand out for their high degree of caring and success, but makes a strong case for why other schools should be inspired to take up the challenge and replicate their efforts.