Indiana Social-Emotional Learning Competencies: A Neurodevelopmental, Culturally Responsive Framework

Social/emotional learning (SEL) programs and practices have gained momentum across the state of Indiana in recent years in response to the changing needs of students and families. Many school communities have adopted SEL due to the heightened challenges posed by students impacted by trauma or chronic stress. As schools began to adopt SEL programs and practices, the Indiana Department of Education responded by developing the Indiana SEL Competencies to provide a unified framework and several resources with which educators in the state continue to evolve their work. This article outlines foundational principles of SEL, highlights unique aspects of the Indiana SEL Competencies, and presents implications for the school counselor’s role in working toward systemic implementation of SEL.