The Puzzle of Instruction Social Emotional Learning Integration in All Content Areas How many hats do you wear in a day as an educator? We are teachers, counselors, coaches, mental health coordinators, de facto parents while dabbling in behavior specialist work. We already have full plates, AND something needs to change. We are not suggesting that you need to add one more thing. Instead, we are asking you to think beyond what you teach, and focus on how you teach. As teachers we have the true power to change the outcome for our students, through supporting the whole child's social and emotional learning; through academics. Throughout this book, we will provide Explanations of CASEL's (Collaborative for Academic Social and Emotional Learning) 5 social-emotional competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making skills. Connections to common core standards, with explanations on how to integrate the competencies with academic instruction. Alignment between culturally responsive teaching practices and the competencies, ensuring our students are prepared for life beyond our k-12 system. Impactful reflection opportunities to support the understanding of your OWN social and emotional skills. It's time to stand in the gap for our students!