Summary
Social Emotional Language Learning Arts (SELLA), offered by Montgomery County Educational Service Center, provides academic integration and lesson-based approaches to SEL. SELLA is designed to be integrated with ELA, with particular emphasis on writing skills and alignment with the Common Core State Standards for writing. Lessons also reference Common Core State Standards for reading, speaking, and listening. SELLA offers programming for grades K-6. A CASEL-approved evaluation demonstrates evidence of effective in grades 2-5.
Strategies supporting educational equity (CASEL)
SELLA features strategies for customizing for context. This includes dedicated time during program training for educators to review and adapt resources to serve students’ needs.
Implementation
Below are key implementation details for this program. These specifications help determine if the program is a good fit for your school or organization.
Grade(s)
Elementary (K-5)
Setting
Classroom, Schoolwide, Community
Language
English
Cost
Varies; For additional information please contact the provider
# Lessons
For additional information please contact the provider
Program Design
Tier 1 (Universal)
Technology Requirements
Teacher computer
Staffing Requirements
No additional staffing required
Professional Development
Onsite In-Person, Virtual, Offsite
Outcomes
Improved SEL skills and attitudes
Reduced Emotional Distress
Improved Identity Development/ Agency
Improved Academic Performance
Reduced Problem Behavior
Improved School Climate
Improved School Connectedness
Improved Prosocial Behavior
Improved Teaching Practices
Improved SEL Skills and Attitude
Evidence of Effectiveness
Results from a randomized controlled trial conducted in the 2021-22 academic year (unpublished report written in 2023) supported the effectiveness of SELLA for public school students. This evaluation included 253 students in grades 2-5 from a suburban school district in the U.S. Midwest region (86% white; 13.5% free or reduced-price lunch (FRPL)). The study found that students who participated in the program had significantly higher self-awareness, relationship skills, and optimistic thinking compared to students in the control group (outcomes reported 32 weeks after baseline) while controlling for outcome pretest and grade level.
Published Studies
Refer to the provided CASEL for the most up-to-date published studies.
Bernstein, E.R., & Anderson, J.R. (2023). Building SEL competencies through writing in the elementary classroom. Unpublished manuscript.