Building a Foundation for Success with Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

At Y.B.Normal?, our mission to empower economically disadvantaged youth is deeply personal.

I’ve faced more than my share of struggles—failing in school, battling addiction to alcohol and drugs, surviving three suicide attempts before the age of 18, and growing up in a single-parent household. I know what it feels like to doubt your worth, to feel like you’re not good enough.

These experiences shaped me, and they fuel my passion for the work we do at Y.B.Normal?. It’s an honor to stand here today, using my voice to speak for others who may feel they have none.

The Importance of SEL

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is more than just a tool for academic success—it’s a lifeline. Research consistently shows that SEL has a profound impact on critical life outcomes, including academic and career achievements, college entry and completion, and long-term earning potential. But for me, SEL is about more than statistics.

It’s about giving students the tools I wish I had when I was in their shoes—tools to navigate emotions, cope with life’s challenges, and ultimately, to choose life when it feels like there’s no hope.

National Suicide Awareness Month

As we observe National Suicide Awareness Month this September, it’s a critical time to emphasize the importance of SEL in our schools and communities. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people aged 10-24, and the impact of untreated mental health issues can be devastating.

SEL provides students with the emotional tools they need to recognize their worth, build resilience, and seek help when they need it most. By teaching skills like self-regulation, emotional awareness, and effective communication, SEL can play a vital role in preventing suicide and promoting overall mental health.

Revamping SEL Journals for Inclusivity

Understanding that each student’s journey is unique, we’ve recently undertaken a significant revamp of our SEL journals. We’ve made them more inclusive, both educationally and personally, to ensure that every student, regardless of their background or challenges, can see themselves reflected in the content.

Educationally, we’ve broadened the scope of the journals to include diverse perspectives and examples, making them relevant to students from various cultural, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds. This includes incorporating stories, scenarios, and challenges that resonate with students from different walks of life, ensuring that the lessons are applicable and relatable.

On a personal level, we’ve introduced more reflective prompts and activities that encourage students to explore their identities, emotions, and aspirations. The goal is to create a safe space within the journals where students can express themselves freely and without judgment. By doing so, we hope to foster a more profound sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance, which are critical components of social and emotional health.

How Y.B.Normal? SEL Journals Make a Difference

Our revamped SEL journals serve as a mirror and a map for students, encouraging self-examination, promoting effective communication, and building self-awareness. These are not just academic skills; they are life skills that can determine whether a student merely survives or truly thrives. By reflecting on their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, students build the foundation for lifelong well-being.

Through these updates, we are more committed than ever to expanding our reach, ensuring that more students can benefit from the support and guidance that SEL provides. We want every student to know: Why be normal when you can be extraordinary?

Get Involved

As we recognize National Suicide Awareness Month, there has never been a more important time to invest in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). If you would like more information about our newly revamped SEL journals or to learn more about other Y.B.Normal? programs, visit our website or connect with us on social media.

If you’re interested in purchasing our SEL journals, we’re here to help.

As a special offer, if you purchase over 300 journals, you’ll receive a free keynote presentation from our company.

Together, we can help this generation realize their extraordinary potential.

As I always say…Y.B.Normal? When you can be extraordinary.

Classroom Effectiveness

Navigating the classroom can be tough especially if you are a new teacher or experiencing new things this school year.

Here are some actionable self-care strategies that helps running your classroom more effectively

• Practice Mindful Breathing: Take a few minutes each day to engage in mindful breathing exercises.
• Set Boundaries for Work-Life Balance: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Avoid taking work home whenever possible, and dedicate time each day for relaxation and activities that recharge you.
• Engage in Reflective Journaling: Spend a few minutes at the end of each day reflecting on your experiences. Journaling about what went well and areas for improvement can help you process emotions, reduce stress, and develop strategies for better classroom management.

Let us know what you do to manage self-care to increase classroom effectiveness.

Educators Corner (Resources)

Resources to Support Educators

• Calm App
• Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself

News & Updates Around Y.B. Normal?

We are currently booking for National Suicide Prevention Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, National Bullying Prevention Month, & Red Ribbon Month.

Where are we in the month of September?

• Upper Marlboro, Maryland
• Atlanta, Georgia
• San Antonio, Texas
• Knoxville, Tennessee

Want to Work With Us? Click Here to Book A Call!