National SEL week is a “SEL”ebration of social and emotional learning in every community in the United States—and this year was no different! From the kickoff on International SEL Day (Monday, March 2) through events all week long, CASEL worked to spread the word about social and emotional learning, showcasing this year’s theme, Skills for Community, Skills for Career. Here are some of the highlights of National SEL Week 2026.
Congressional Support for National SEL Week
Back to topNine U.S. Senators co-sponsored a resolution introduced by Senator Dick Durbin (IL) expressing support for the designation of National Social and Emotional Learning Week. We’d like to thank Senator Durbin for his continued support of social and emotional learning. See his remarks on National SEL Week and press release for more information.
In addition, Hawaii, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, and Vermont released state proclamations or resolutions recognizing either International SEL Day as March 2, 2026, or March 2–6, 2026, as National SEL Week.
Taking Social and Emotional Learning to Capitol Hill
Back to topNational SEL Week began with a trip to the Hill, where CASEL staff visited the offices of 25 senators and representatives to discuss the importance of social and emotional learning. We were overwhelmed by our reception and were grateful for the chance to share the good word about SEL and how it supports future success for students in their careers and communities as productive members of society.
Deep Dive: A Capitol Hill Briefing on SEL & Future Readiness
Back to topWe were also joined on the Hill by a panel of experts who spoke at our briefing on how social and emotional skills serve as a foundation for students’ future readiness.
After an opening address and introduction from CASEL board member Melissa Johnston and Director of Policy Asher Miller (CASEL), we heard powerful reflections from panelists from Lillian Pace (Knowledgeworks), Dr. Rista Plate (CASEL), Tim Taylor (America Succeeds), and Chelle Travis (Skills USA).
Their thought-provoking discussion highlighted how skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and adaptability are consistently cited by employers as essential to success in today’s economy, and that schools—and SEL—play a critical role in developing these competencies.
Check out highlights from the panel.
Students Speak Up for SEL
Back to topDuring our visit to the Hill, we were thrilled to be joined by students and staff from Fairfax County’s (Va.) Justice High School as well as leaders from their district office. As members of their school’s Student SEL Advisory Committee, these young people were eloquent advocates for social and emotional learning.
They led the charge on three of our visits to congressional and senate offices and, along with their school leaders, described the importance of social and emotional learning both now and in the future.
Hear more from the students of Justice High School.
The wise words from these students are a reminder how important social and emotional learning is to this next generation, to our communities, and to our country. Thank you for celebrating with us! We can’t wait until next year!
Related Posts
- National SEL Week 2026: Students Speak Up!
- National SEL Week 2026: A Capitol Hill Briefing on SEL & Future Readiness
- Highlights and Insights From the 2026 Exchange
Write for Us
Back to topAre you interested in writing for CASEL’s blog, Constellations? Learn more about what we’re looking for and how to pitch your idea!