Abstract
The purpose of this project is to research the effectiveness of a condensed and modified social and emotional (SEL) learning curricula based on the Strong Kids 3-5 (Merrell, 2007a) materials. The goal is to provide school communities and teams (teachers, school psychologists, principals, and other school-based mental health providers) with an evidence-based, condensed SEL curricula that is easy to administer and still effectively targets key social and emotional learning skills. This goal will be met by researching SEL curriculums and garnering feedback from a pilot study to develop a condensed, modified curriculum that addresses the five core SEL competencies. In addition to addressing these core competencies and condensing the lessons, this project will also increase the opportunity for students to learn the concepts via hands-on activities, thereby aiding student learning and practice. The six-week modified group SEL curriculum is created for school psychologists and special education program specialists to utilize at their school sites. Also provided as part of the project are the following materials: Parental consent form (English and Spanish versions), child assent form (English and Spanish versions), Strong Kids Symptoms test, Strong Kids Knowledge test, and informal pre- and post- test qualitative teacher feedback form.