Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
Search is currently unavailable. Please try again later.
The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
March 03, 2025
WHEREAS, social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which young people and adults acquire and apply knowledge, skills, and attitudes to better understand and manage one’s own emotions, thoughts, and values; the ability to show empathy, develop and maintain healthy relationships; and the ability to make responsible decisions;
WHEREAS, the five SEL competencies of self-awareness, awareness of others, self-management, relationship to others, and responsible decision-making serve as an effective bridge between academic and mental health supports in school;
WHEREAS, SEL helps to support student mental health needs by fostering a sense of safety and security, building positive relationships with others, and providing equitable support to learning;
WHEREAS, SEL has existed for over 30 years and is rooted in best practices and effective teaching strategies;
WHEREAS, the State Board of Education and the Michigan Department of Education have included the goal of improving the health, safety, and wellness of all learners in Michigan’s Strategic Education Plan;
WHEREAS, SEL is a lifelong process that is essential to one’s ability to make meaningful contributions at school, in the home, in the workplace, and in the community;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 3, 2025, as Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Day in Michigan.