Evidence-Based Programs

State Resource Center: Evidence-based programs

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Implementation of evidence-based programs in schools is a central element of an effective, systemic approach to social and emotional learning. Evidence-based SEL programs are grounded in research and principles of child and adolescent development, and scientifically evaluated and shown to produce positive student outcomes.

CASEL recommends that states support educators in selecting an evidence-based program by referring to national clearinghouses and resources, such as the CASEL Guide for SEL Programs. The resources below can help.

Resources from CASEL

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Feel free to download, customize, and use with attribution, e.g., “Adapted from the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning and used with permission.”

  • CASEL Guide to Effective SEL Programs. The guide identifies criteria for evaluating quality SEL program, preschool to high school, and identifies more than 70 programs that meet that criteria. Visit the Guide.
  • SEL District Resource Center: Programming. The digital platform for district leaders provides guidance and resources to assist in selecting and implementing evidence-based SEL programs throughout a school district. Visit the website.

Resources from Other Organizations

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  • Social and Emotional Learning Interventions Under the Every Student Succeeds Act. Evidence Review. RAND Corporation. The report looks at the funding streams and evidence-based interventions that use the federal Every Child Succeeds Act (ESSA) to support SEL. (2017). Download the report.
  • Navigating SEL From the Inside Out. Wallace Foundation. This report provides detailed information on the skills, instructional methods, and programmatic features for 25 in-school SEL programs for elementary students. In addition, it describes opportunities for alignment between SEL frameworks and out-of-school time programs. (March 2017). Download the report.
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