Social and Emotional Learning Conference

Join us at the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Conference offered on the University of Northern Iowa campus on Friday, April 7, 2023 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. CST.

With the pandemic spotlighting the need for greater understanding of social and emotional learning and behavioral health in our classrooms, we are advancing the conversation on "what's next?" Be part of the dialogue as we explore ways to promote the social, emotional and behavioral health of children and educators in ways that advance equity and excellence in education.

Keynote speakers include:

• Marc Brackett, PhD, nationally recognized author, Yale professor and lead developer of RULER, an approach to social and emotional learning
• ​Gina McGovern, PhD, professor and researcher known for her studies that support the development of youth’s social emotional skills and ethnic-racial identity

As an educator, this conference will help empower you to implement Iowa’s Social and Emotional Learning Competencies in ways that lead to inclusive, responsive and trauma-sensitive classrooms and promote educator self-care. Local, state and national experts will lead breakout sessions focusing on topics including:

• Creating classrooms where ALL students feel safe, connected and engaged in learning
• ​Understanding the vital role emotions play in cognitive processing, physical health, and relationships
• Promoting educators’ own social and emotional competencies and well-being
• Using literature, mindfulness and compassion-based interventions and other strategies to support social and emotional learning
• Deepening knowledge of social and emotional learning competencies, trauma-sensitive practices and self-regulatory behaviors

Hosted by the UNI College of Education, the conference will be held on site on UNI's campus with an online option for the keynote speakers  and one breakout session at a reduced rate (see registration). Free to UNI faculty, staff and students.

Who should attend: Teachers, school counselors, school psychologists, school administrators and anyone who works with youth and children in the community!

Registration: $50 before March 3; $60 after March 3. $30 for keynote speakers online-only option. UNI faculty, staff and students at no charge. Social Work CEUs and one hour of UNI undergraduate or graduate education credit for teaching license renewal also available.