Mental Health/SEL


Social Emotional Learning


Photo of Ms. Hanks
Social Emotional Learning Specialist
Ms. Kelsey Hanks 
[email protected]


 

Photo of Ms. Witty
JCMH Therapist
McKinnley Witty, LCSW
[email protected]

 Photo of Ms. Knaub School Counselor 
Ms. Erika Knaub
[email protected]
 Photo of Ms. Brenner



School Social Worker
Ms. Jamie Brenner    
[email protected]


I have worked as a Social Emotional Learning Specialist (SELS) and/or School Social Worker in Jeffco Public Schools for nearly two decades.  Originally from Michigan, I received my B.A. in Sociology from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and my Master in Social Work (MSW) from the University of Denver.  Every day, I am grateful for the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our students, helping them navigate the complexities of school and life with empathy, understanding, and genuine care.
When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, running, traveling, and playing with my dogs.

Click to read more about:
Mental Health Support and the Role of the School Social Worker

Apoyo en Salud Mental y el Rol del Trabajador Social Escolar


SEL

What is Social Emotional Learning?

Social and emotional learning (SEL) describes a set of competencies and skills that enhances students’ capacity to integrate skills, attitudes, and behaviors to deal effectively and ethically with daily tasks and challenges.

Jeffco Public Schools has adopted the five core components of social and emotional learning outlined by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL).

  • Self-Awareness
  • Self-Management
  • Social Awareness
  • Relationship Skills
  • Responsible Decision-Making

SEL takes place within the context of safe, participatory school, family, and community environments that support children’s development and provides opportunities and recognition for successfully applying these competencies. This approach promotes intrapersonal, interpersonal, and cognitive competence.

Why is Social and Emotional Learning important?

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) helps youth acquire and apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Social and emotional skill building can have a positive impact on school climate, help students become good learners, and prevent or reduce many risky behaviors, including drug use, violence, bullying and dropping out.

Hazel Health

If you are interested in your child receiving mental health support through FREE virtual sessions with a therapist, click on the links below for more information and to sign up.

Hazel Health Flyer English

Hazel Health Flyer Spanish

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