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About Us

Mission

The mission of SEL4CT is to foster holistic development in children and youth by integrating social-emotional learning (SEL), character education, and positive youth development. We build inclusive and supportive environments that prioritize mental and physical well-being, prevent substance use and bullying, and promote caring schools and communities. Through strategic partnerships and stakeholder engagement, we ensure sustainable and equitable access to SEL initiatives and resources that empower individuals to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

Vision

SEL4CT envisions a future where every child and youth is nurtured in an inclusive, compassionate community that values their social, emotional, and academic well-being. Through our commitment to whole child/whole school approaches and comprehensive SEL initiatives, we aim to create environments where young people are equipped with the skills, character, and resilience to lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to society. Our success will be measured by meaningful feedback, ongoing alignment with our mission, and the lasting impact on individuals and communities we serve.

Goals

  1. Build statewide awareness for SEL and related approaches.
  2. Advocate for state and local SEL-related policies and funding.
  3. Provide opportunities for SEL stakeholders, including educators, child care providers, administrators, youth, parents, educator preparation programs, policymakers, community organizations, afterschool programs, businesses, and SEL providers to learn about and share SEL advocacy, research, theory and best practices.
  4. Connect a broad range of SEL stakeholders to coordinate and support implementation across the state.

SEL4CT's Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

SEL4CT with The Connecticut Network for Children and Youth believes that working with families, communities, and schools has the power to connect people from every culture, race, socio-economic status, age, ability, religion, sexual orientation, and gender identity. These groups are the fabric of our communities, and we are committed to offering programs, training, and resources that are representative and inclusive of all people. The Connecticut Network for Children and Youth celebrates its diversity and welcomes all who wish to work on improving the lives of children and families in Connecticut.

Content Accessibility Policy

The Connecticut Network for Children and Youth is committed to making our content accessible to all members of all communities. This continuous commitment means our training, resources, social media content, and programs are curated with best practices for accessibility to ensure that all can engage. Platforms and guidelines change frequently, and we will update our practices to comply. CTNCY will hold ourselves accountable to the following practices:

  • Use plain language
  • Use person-first language instead of ableist language
  • Use inclusive terms and phrases (avoid language that can perpetuate harmful stigmas)
  • Offer accessible social media descriptions (alt text)
  • Capitalize the first letter of each word in hashtags
  • Include representation in your photos and videos
  • Caption your video content
  • Avoid using custom fonts in social media profiles and posts
  • Use emojis in moderation
  • Make graphics accessible for people with vision impairment
  • Be careful placing text over images
  • Create trigger warnings
  • Review your accessible social media frequently
  • Keep up to date on accessibility best practices

 

If you see that something is missing from this list, please email us at info@ctncy.org.

 

SEL4CT is just getting started and we need your help and support! Learn more about our upcoming meetings and how you can get involved.

Approach

Promote

Build community awareness for SEL and its impact

Advocate

Advocate for state and local SEL policies and funding

Connect

Connect local SEL stakeholders to learn about and share research, advocacy and best practices