Delivering on the Promise of Education with SEL This New School Year

Dear Committee for Children and Second Step Partners, 

As we embark on a new academic year, I am optimistic and excited for the opportunities before us. Back-to-school season is not just a time for students to return to their studies; it’s also a moment for us to reflect on our shared mission of fostering the safety and well-being of children through social-emotional learning (SEL) and development. It’s another chance for us to deliver on the promise of education—joyfully and with determination. It’s another chapter in how we help guide the story of our young people’s future.  

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the role of education and SEL is critical. We are tasked with preparing our students not only for the challenges of today but for the unknowns of tomorrow. And I know that you’re doing that while navigating the detrimental impacts of learning loss and other challenges over the last few years. You’re doing that while trying to support each student’s mental, physical, and emotional well-being. You’re doing that while trying to care for yourself and your loved ones. Holding all that and delivering on the promise of education through your work is no easy feat; it requires collaboration, innovation, problem-solving, communication, and a steadfast dedication to educational excellence. It requires that we, too, lean into our prosocial skills and rely on them to help us promote those necessary skills in the children we support.  

We know how champions like you are making a tremendous impact on children’s lives across the country. So, we want to ensure you can maximize use of our Second Step® programs to influence positive student outcomes, whether it’s achieving academic goals, resolving conflicts, improving attendance, increasing student engagement, or reducing bullying. Committee for Children is committed to supporting you in this journey by providing the tools, resources, and partnership necessary to empower educators, inspire students, and strengthen communities. Your input and feedback on what that looks like will be invaluable to broadening our impact. Together, we can create a more just and peaceful world for children.  

I’m appreciative of your continued dedication and partnership. Here’s to a successful school year ahead! 

With gratitude, 

Andrea