Bill > S315

This bill requires the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to develop and publish guidelines for implementing social-emotional learning (SEL) in middle and high school athletic programs by June 30, 2025. The guidelines will provide comprehensive instructions for creating supportive, bias-free team environments, with specific focus on empowering students through leadership opportunities, teaching them to recognize and report harmful behaviors, and developing critical interpersonal skills. These skills include emotion management, stress management, conflict resolution, ethical decision-making, goal setting, and resisting negative social pressures. The bill defines social-emotional learning as a process that helps children develop emotional intelligence, interpersonal skills, and the ability to make responsible decisions. While school districts are not mandated to adopt these guidelines, they are encouraged to consider them when integrating SEL into athletic programs. The guidelines will be updated every two years and will be incorporated into the existing safe and supportive schools framework, demonstrating a holistic approach to student development that extends beyond traditional academic settings into athletic environments.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S315