March 26, 2021: Social Emotional Learning Day

 

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the social, emotional, and mental health needs of young people in Michigan; and,

 

WHEREAS, schools provide supportive environments for students to feel emotionally and physically safe; and,
 

WHEREAS, schools establish routines and support systems that have been interrupted due to the pandemic; and,

 

WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reports that telemedicine visits for behavioral health for children ages 0-21 have increased significantly in the last year; and,

 

WHEREAS, the "Kids, Families and COVID-19: Pandemic Pain Points and Roadmap for Recovery" report states that 34% of Michigan households with children indicate that they feel nervous, anxious, or on edge more than half of the days or nearly every day in the preceding week; and,

 

WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Education, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the Michigan Association of School Social Workers, the Michigan School Counselor Association, and the Michigan Association of School Psychologists affirm the need for Social Emotional Learning (SEL) as a foundational support to schools, families, and children; and,

 

WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Education provides online SEL and mental health resources and training for educators and families; and,

 

WHEREAS, the State Board of Education and Michigan Department of Education have included student health, safety, and wellness goals in the state's strategic education plan;  

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 26, 2021, as Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Day in Michigan.