Accountability in the Classroom

Social-emotional learning (SEL) has become an important trend in education; however, it is frequently overlooked at the high school level. Arguably, SEL is even more important at this level than other grade levels for the purposes of effective college and career readiness preparation. The inclusion of SEL into school accountability systems and classrooms at all levels of K-12 education will improve SEL’s likelihood of being addressed. When it is, students are better served. This book provides an overview of the like terms for SEL, the state standards in place, and the programs that exist. Furthermore, this book provides improved understanding of SEL assessments in school accountability, practical guidance for SEL usage in the classroom, and new approaches to distance learning with an SEL approach. Specifically, little is known about the usage of SEL in the World Language classroom, so this book is useful for leaders in this content area in particular.

Dr. Renee Carr has developed a timely must-read for all stakeholders in the field of education. Knowing systems with foundational social and emotional learning (SEL) practices produce measurable increases in student achievement, she expounds arguments for the use of SEL in school accountability. Dr. Carr provides clear pathways based on a synthesis of research and experience for understanding the importance of teaching skills such as collaboration, empathy, and decision-making in schools. Systemically, we teach what will be measured and what we are accountable for, and her work will help schools move forward with innovative, evidence-based practices leading to powerful educational outcomes for our students.--Andie Ahlfors, MEd, third grade teacher/SEL lead teacher, Hazelwood Elementary, Renton School District, Accountability in the Classroom serves as a roadmap for implementing social-emotional learning at the secondary level from the ground up. As we prepare to send students into the world, it is important that we equip them emotionally and socially as well as academically. This is the key to unlocking our students' full potential. Not only do the strategies presented in this book have the possibility to raise student achievement, they offer surefire ways to ensure that all students exit high school with the ability to self-analyze and self-advocate. Accountability in the Classroom provides the latest insight on SEL from the point of view of a researcher turned teacher.--Melissa Nankin, assistant principal, DuVal High School, Prince George's County Public Schools, Dr. Carr tackles a crucial element of modern teaching: the whole child. Schools now work in partnership with the family unit to provide citizens the opportunity to grow socially and emotionally. Since this work is done in partnership with families, school systems prepare students for not only academic achievements, but they also prepare students for life-long success. As Dr. Carr urges, social-emotional learning is the linchpin of a truly well-rounded education that prepares all students for career and life successes. It is time school systems heed this call for holistic learning.--Helen Babbin, principal, Meredith Hill Elementary, Federal Way Public Schools, The author presents an excellent case for turning the American educational system toward teaching the whole child, the importance of fostering emotional IQ through SEL, and SEL school assessments to ensure skill-building and student success. I appreciated the thorough breakdown of SEL state standards and their assessments. Dr. Carr spells it out quite plainly: SEL data is needed to inform decisions, now more than ever.--Kerri Godina, MSW, elementary school counselor, Mark Twain Elementary School, Federal Way Public Schools

Renee Carr, EdD has been working in the field of education since 2007. Dr. Carr has a history of working in international and domestic education and exchange.