Summary
The **New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA)**, in collaboration with **Rutgers University's Academy for SEL in Schools** and **Saint Elizabeth University**, has launched a new, free online course titled "**Brick by Brick: A Leader’s Guide to Building Social-Emotional Learning in Schools**." This initiative, developed with funding from the **New Jersey Department of Education**, targets PreK–12 school leaders and aims to provide practical strategies for implementing **Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)**. The course emphasizes creating inclusive environments where students feel safe, valued, and a sense of belonging. It also involved input from **character.org**, **NJASECD**, and national SEL experts.
Key Takeaways
- A new free online course for NJ school leaders focuses on building Social-Emotional Learning (SEL).
- The course, 'Brick by Brick,' is a collaboration between Rutgers University and Saint Elizabeth University.
- It is funded by the New Jersey Department of Education and involves multiple educational organizations.
- The goal is to equip leaders with tools for creating safer, more inclusive school environments.
- This initiative aims to systematically implement SEL across PreK-12 schools in New Jersey.
Balanced Perspective
The launch of "Brick by Brick" offers a new, accessible resource for New Jersey school leaders focused on SEL. Developed through a state grant and partnerships with academic institutions and advocacy groups, the course provides a structured curriculum for implementing SEL principles. Its online format aims to maximize reach and flexibility for busy administrators. The effectiveness will ultimately depend on the course's content quality and the subsequent adoption and integration by school districts.
Optimistic View
This free course represents a significant investment in the foundational well-being of New Jersey's students. By equipping school leaders with practical, actionable strategies for SEL, **Rutgers** and the **NJSBA** are fostering a proactive approach to mental health and a positive school culture. The "Brick by Brick" methodology suggests a systematic, sustainable implementation, promising long-term benefits for student engagement and academic success across the state.
Critical View
While the intention behind the "Brick by Brick" course is commendable, its impact hinges on several factors often overlooked in educational initiatives. The success of SEL implementation frequently faces challenges like insufficient funding for ongoing support, teacher buy-in, and the sheer complexity of integrating new curricula into already strained school systems. Without robust follow-up and resources beyond the initial training, this free course might become another well-intentioned but ultimately superficial program.
Source
Originally reported by New Jersey School Boards Association