In this insightful interview, Mrs. Mani Srivastava, Principal, New Horizon Scholars School, Kolshet, Thane, shares her perspective on the vital role of Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL) in education. She elaborates on how SEL is integrated into her school’s curriculum, nurturing positive student relationships and enhancing academic performance. She talks about the significance of extracurricular activities in developing students’ socio-emotional skills, providing examples of how sports, music, drama, and community service contribute to holistic growth. Also, Mrs. Srivastava explains how the school supports students in balancing academics with extracurriculars and collaborates with parents to reinforce these educational goals. Let’s dive in!
Q. Can you explain your understanding of Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL) and how it fits into your school’s educational frameworks to achieve their goals and build positive relationships?
Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL) is a vital component of a student’s success and is closely linked to positive academic outcomes. SEL helps students of all ages better understand their emotions, fully experience them, and develop empathy for others. These learned behaviours are crucial for making responsible decisions and building positive relationships.
At New Horizon Scholars School, SEL is deeply integrated into our curriculum and school culture. Our approach involves a well-designed, evidence-based program that permeates all aspects of the school environment, including schoolwide practices and policies. We actively collaborate with all stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and community members, to create a supportive and engaging learning atmosphere.
For instance, our SEL initiatives encourage students to express themselves, engage in meaningful conversations, and participate in activities that foster teamwork and empathy. We also emphasize the importance of creating a positive classroom climate and using constructive approaches to discipline. These efforts help students feel valued and supported, enhancing their overall well-being and academic performance.
Q. What role do extracurricular activities play in promoting socio-emotional learning among students?
Extracurricular activities are essential in promoting socio-emotional learning among students, as they offer opportunities to develop interpersonal and intrapersonal skills in diverse and enriching contexts. Participation in these activities is associated with improved subjective well-being, better interpersonal connections, and the development of emotional, social, academic, and career skills.
For example, sports encourage teamwork, resilience, and empathy, while participation in music ensembles promotes discipline, emotional expression, and collaboration. Drama clubs foster confidence, empathy, and creative expression, while debate teams enhance critical thinking, communication skills, and respect for diverse perspectives. Community service projects provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, empathy, and a sense of social responsibility.
At New Horizon Scholars School, we have seen that students who participate in extracurricular activities demonstrate better social competence and school engagement, even among those with emotional and behavioural challenges. These activities help students build self-regulatory systems, which are crucial for academic success and emotional well-being.
Q. How does your school support students in finding a balance between academic excellence and participating in extracurricular activities?
At New Horizon Scholars School, we prioritize creating a balanced educational experience that integrates academics and extracurricular activities. We try to achieve this balance through careful planning and by offering a wide range of activities that cater to students’ diverse interests.
For instance, we incorporate vocational activities and clubs, such as Oratory, Social Service, Dramatics, Music & Dance, and Environment clubs, into our curriculum. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore their passions, develop leadership qualities, and gain practical skills. By allowing students to choose activities that align with their interests, we encourage them to engage in meaningful and fulfilling pursuits outside the classroom.
This integrated approach helps students manage their time effectively, ensuring they can excel academically while also pursuing extracurricular interests. For example, participation in theatre can help students develop emotional stability and growth while being part of a choir fosters social connections and collaboration skills.
Q. Does your school collaborate with parents to reinforce the importance of both academics and socio-emotional skills in students’ growth?
Parental collaboration is a cornerstone of our educational approach at New Horizon Scholars School. We believe that strong partnerships between parents and educators are essential for supporting students’ holistic development. We consider parents as partners in the educational process and actively involve them in various aspects of school life.
For example, we organize regular workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions where parents can learn about the school’s educational philosophy, including the importance of socio-emotional skills. We also encourage parents to participate in school events, such as fairs and extracurricular activities, to reinforce the lessons learned in school.
We emphasize open communication with parents, keeping them informed about their children’s progress and involving them in decision-making processes related to their education. This collaborative approach helps create a supportive environment for students, where both academics and socio-emotional skills are prioritized.
Q. Do you feel that a balanced focus on academics, extracurricular activities, and socio-emotional learning is important in education? If so, how do you ensure that these aspects are integrated effectively into students’ overall development?
A balanced focus on academics, extracurricular activities, and socio-emotional learning is crucial for a well-rounded education. Each of these components contributes uniquely to a student’s development, preparing them for a fulfilling and successful life. At New Horizon Scholars School, we try to ensure that these elements are integrated effectively through thoughtful curriculum design, a supportive school culture, and active engagement from all stakeholders. For example, our Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) program encourages students to engage in a variety of activities that promote personal growth, community involvement, and academic excellence.
We also employ Project-Based Learning (PBL) to provide students with interdisciplinary learning experiences that combine academic knowledge with real-world problem-solving. PBL helps students develop critical thinking, collaboration, and reflection skills, integrating academic, extracurricular, and socio-emotional aspects. Our dedicated Social-Emotional Learning programs, such as “Second Step” or “The Leader in Me,” focus on building SEL skills within the school day, complementing academic learning and supporting students’ overall development. These programs help students develop emotional intelligence, resilience, and interpersonal skills, preparing them for the challenges of the modern world.
