Teach SEL Podcast

A first-year teacher reflects on starting in a pandemic and growing through challenges. She urges trusting your training and trying bold approaches even when they feel risky. The conversation highlights social-emotional connections, building routines that enable learning, and the power of proactive family communication. Self-care, asking for help, and practicing gratitude as a leader also feature prominently.

Kennedy Brough, a pre-service English and special education teacher and co-creator of the SEL through ELA website, shares how reading and writing can naturally support social-emotional learning. She describes the site’s K–12 libraries, practical lesson strategies, and favorite resources. Short rapid-fire picks include books and a superhero choice, plus ideas for fostering empathy and cross-classroom projects.

Donna Romack, Director of Pediatric Cancer Educational Outreach at Riley Children’s Hospital and experienced international educator. She discusses using SEL and empathy to support childhood cancer survivors, teaching multilingual and transient students, and redesigning schools to nurture the whole child. Short, human-centered stories and practical rituals highlight connection and lifelong impact.

Dr. Tony Kline, former elementary teacher and current education dean and researcher, brings a leadership lens to social-emotional learning. He recounts his path into SEL and a dissertation study linking leaders' SEL skills to school outcomes. He outlines practical steps for leading SEL implementation and shares classroom strategies like journaling and student-led leadership activities.