Why Purpose and SEL?
Purpose can serve as an internal North Star for both students and educators as they navigate their academic, professional, and personal journeys. And social-emotional learning (SEL) skills are critical to ensure both students and educators are able to actualize their purpose.
Yet, less than 25% of high school students possess a clear sense of purpose, and three out of five young adults felt their lives lacked meaning and purpose.
Educators are increasingly aware of the need for young people to develop more than just academic excellence. It is essential for young people to meaningfully explore their identities and cultivate a strong sense of how they relate to others and the world around them. We must do more to help them develop a deeper understanding of who they are and equip them with the mindsets, tools, and skills necessary to navigate our rapidly changing world.
Benefits of purpose and SEL development
Studies continue to show that youth and adults with a strong sense of purpose experience a multitude of benefits from greater academic engagement to better life satisfaction.
For students
Months after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC reported a 31% increase in emergency room visits among 12 to 17 year olds due to mental health crises. When we are able to support youth in developing a strong sense of purpose, they can also experience greater resilience, greater wellbeing, greater academic engagement, and positive career identities—all characteristics needed to successfully navigate the world.
For educators
One survey revealed that 27% of educators reported symptoms of depression compared to 10% of other adults. Similar to youth, when we support educators in developing their sense of purpose, we are also able to help them cultivate their own social-emotional wellness.
For communities
Purpose is an intrinsic motivator that can ignite excitement within students for their futures. It can also play a critical role in rebuilding communities and help individuals feel a sense of belonging in those communities.
Take a closer look at our curriculum. Contact us at info@nxueducation.org