After reading the requirement for Essential Update #2, I was curious about the social objectives for education in my state. I found a local newscast report about the Maine Department of Education launching a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum. 

Link to newscast: http://www.wabi.tv/2020/09/17/maine-doe-will-launch-social-emotional-learning-curriculum/

The framework for SEL is provided by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL). CASEL defines SEL "as the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions, and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions." 

SEL Framework

"Brain science tells us that when we put a priority on helping students know how to access their thinking brain and can feel safe and connected within their learning environment, they can meet academic outcomes with greater success," said Maine's SEL Specialist Kellie Bailey (wabi.tv/2020/09/17)

The Maine DOE website has more details on how they will measure outcomes of SEL as well as resources for teachers, parents, and students. These objectives are important and relevant to our students' current issues dealing with cultural diversity, Covid-19, and adapting to the new remote learning environment.

Works Cited:

Maine DOE will launch Social Emotional Learning curriculum. http://www.wabi.tv/2020/09/17/maine-doe-will-launch-social-emotional-learning-curriculum/

CASEL Framework http://casel.org/sel-framework/ 

What is SEL? http://casel.org/what-is-SEL/

Additional Resources:

http://www.maine.gov/doe/sel/faq