Social-emotional learning (SEL) is the process of developing the self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills that are vital for school, work, and life success. When kids are equipped with social-emotional skills, they’re better able to learn and contribute to a positive school climate. Extensive research shows a correlation between the skills taught in SEL programs and academic achievement, positive behavior, decreased stress and anxiety, and healthier life choices.
HB 1473 would ban social-emotional learning in public schools, prohibiting educators from teaching students these important life skills.
About the Bill
HB 1473 would ban social-emotional learning (SEL) in public schools. This would include important school programs like suicide prevention and Choose Love for Schools programs. Removing SEL from schools puts students at risk of losing out on an education that will help them succeed in school and in life.
SEL skills help children build healthy relationships, succeed in schools and future workplaces, and contribute to our communities. In fact, 86% of NH family members agreed that it’s important for their school district to offer social and emotional supports in addition to academics, according to the 2023 NH Department of Education’s 603 Bright Futures Survey. In the 2022 NH School Health Profiles Principals Survey, 91.8% of NH school principals reported providing “universal mental health promotion programs,” which can include SEL and other Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports.
Bill Status
On Thursday, March 7, the House of Representatives voted Inexpedient to Legislate on HB 1473. This bill will not advance this session - a win for social-emotional learning in schools!
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