Bluegrass Times

“SEL is the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.”

This is the definition of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) that has driven the billion-dollar investment in programs throughout public schools across the country. While there is clear evidence that young people today are struggling with mental health issues, there is not overwhelming evidence that these SEL programs successfully address those issues. In fact, there is actually evidence stating the opposite.

Meanwhile, many schools are moving away from quality works of literature that address these very social and emotional issues.  These could act as a catalyst for conversations that would require the students to think critically about them rather than simply being on the receiving end of the often-skewed opinions of their ELA teachers. Consider "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe" by C.S. Lewis. As the students are introduced to the story of four siblings sent to live with a stranger because of air raids during the war, discussions about what they must have felt would certainly be relevant to many students today. As the story progresses and Edmund is found to be lacking integrity, conversations about the importance of honesty and trust would prove to be lively and thought-provoking. There are many other relevant topics that can be found in that marvelous story, and they can be addressed from a “distant perspective” that would not be controversial.

Think about Hatchet by Gary Paulsen that would allow students to see how Brian, the main character, wrestles with his mother’s betrayal of his trust, his parent’s divorce, and finding the strength and resiliency within himself to survive. He certainly had plenty of reasons to feel sorry for himself and give up, but he overcame his obstacles and became better rather than bitter as a result.

Bud, the main character in "Bud, Not Buddy" by Christopher Paul Curtis, is a shining example of determination, a positive attitude, and how to grapple with a reality that is disappointing at times. This wonderful story provides opportunities for students to think about and discuss societal issues as well as their various journeys and obstacles throughout adolescence. One great element of Curtis’ writing is his use of humor to deal with difficult topics. Laughter can be a balm in the face of mental health struggles. Our society today could use a bit more humor.

These are just three examples of the hundreds of well-written works of literature that cultivate critical thinking and promote positive discourse in the classroom. In the process, they could help students “develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.” These beautiful stories can do all of this without costing taxpayers billions of dollars or stirring up controversy over political agendas or ideologies. In addition, teachers would be introducing students to the world of marvelous written works.

Beanie Geoghegan is the Kentucky chapter lead of No Left Turn in Education.