The Complete Guide to SEL Curriculum for Middle School: Programs, Implementation & What Actually Works
The Complete Guide to SEL Curriculum for Middle School: Programs, Implementation & What Actually Works
Why Middle School Is the Critical Window for SEL
Let’s be honest: middle schoolers are in the emotional deep end. Hormones, identity, peer dynamics, self-esteem, and belonging all converge in these years. If there was ever a prime time for social-emotional learning (SEL), this is it. Students aren’t just learning how to solve equations or write essays—they’re learning how to be human, and it’s our job to equip them for both.
SEL curriculum for middle school helps students navigate this intense phase by building self-awareness, emotional regulation, healthy relationships, and responsible decision-making. And for school counselors trying to support every student (while putting out daily fires), a well-chosen curriculum isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
The 5 CASEL Competencies Every Curriculum Should Cover
If a program claims to be SEL but doesn’t address the CASEL 5, it’s missing the mark. Here’s what every evidence-based SEL curriculum must include:
-
Self-Awareness: Recognizing emotions, thoughts, and values and how they influence behavior.
-
Self-Management: Regulating emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations.
-
Social Awareness: Empathy, respect, and understanding diverse perspectives.
-
Relationship Skills: Communication, teamwork, conflict resolution.
-
Responsible Decision-Making: Ethical, constructive choices about personal and social behavior.
Look for programs that not only mention these competencies but embed them in real middle school scenarios.
Types of Middle School SEL Curriculum Approaches
Not all SEL programs are created equal. Here are the major formats you’ll encounter:
-
Direct Instruction Programs: Structured, sequenced lesson plans (e.g., Second Step).
-
Advisory-Based Models: SEL woven into advisory periods.
-
Integrated Curriculum: SEL taught through core academic content (e.g., literature, social studies).
-
Video-Based / Digital Programs: Multimedia-first platforms designed for tech-native students.
-
Project-Based SEL: Focuses on real-world tasks that foster SEL competencies through doing.
Each approach has strengths. The key? Match the model to your school culture, staffing capacity, and student needs.
Top SEL Curriculum Programs for Middle School Compared
| Program | Format | CASEL-Aligned | Price Transparency | Notable Features | Teacher Prep required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Second Step | Direct Instruction | Yes | No public pricing | Evidence-based, widely adopted | Yes |
| CharacterStrong | Advisory/Integrated | Yes | Yes | Emphasizes student voice, includes educator PD | Yes |
| Can Do U | Video-Based | Yes, and more | Yes | Highly engaging, student-centered, easy to implement, designed for High School | No |
| In Control | Video-Based | Yes, and more | Yes | Built by school leaders, tailored implementation support | No |
| PATHS | Direct Instruction | Yes | No | More common in elementary settings, but some MS support | Yes |
What to Look for When Choosing SEL Curriculum
Not all SEL is created equal. Use this checklist when comparing options:
-
Does it cover all 5 CASEL competencies?
-
Is it developmentally appropriate for middle school?
-
Does it include multimedia or video content?
-
Is it easy to implement across different settings?
-
Are there tools for tracking student growth?
-
What kind of training or onboarding is included?
Questions to Ask Vendors:
-
How do you support student engagement?
-
Can I see a sample lesson?
-
How is it culturally responsive?
-
What does implementation support look like?
-
Are there additional costs or hidden fees?
Implementation Best Practices from School Counselors
We talked to counselors who are actually using these programs. Here’s what they recommend:
-
Start small: Pilot the program with one grade level or advisory group.
-
Get buy-in: Engage teachers early. Provide training. Show impact.
-
Schedule with intention: SEL can’t be “one more thing.” Build it into existing structures.
-
Track progress: Use surveys, check-ins, or reflections to gauge impact.
-
Adapt with feedback: Students will tell you (directly or otherwise) if it’s working. Listen and iterate.
Free and Low-Cost SEL Resources
If you’re budget-strapped (who isn’t?), these resources are gold:
-
CASEL Guide (pg.casel.org): A vetted list of SEL programs
-
Panorama Education: Free SEL survey tools
-
Greater Good in Education: SEL activities
-
SchoolX approach: Build empathy through design thinking【21†source】
-
Transformative Principal Podcast: Real implementation stories from school leaders【20†source】
FAQs
What is the best SEL curriculum for middle school?
That depends on your goals. Second Step is reliable. CharacterStrong is engaging. In Control and Can Do U shine in student-first, video-based formats.
How do you implement SEL in middle school?
Start with a pilot. Train your staff. Make SEL part of the schedule, not a bolt-on. Measure what matters.
What are the 5 SEL competencies?
Self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making (from CASEL).
How much does SEL curriculum cost?
Some vendors (like CharacterStrong, Can Do U, In Control) share pricing transparently. Others don’t. Always ask.
Is Second Step evidence-based?
Yes. It’s widely researched and aligned to CASEL.
Conclusion
Middle school is messy, but it’s also the moment where SEL can do the most good. The right curriculum doesn’t just check a compliance box—it transforms how students see themselves and each other. If you’re looking for a video-based, high-impact, counselor-approved option, check out In Control and Can Do U.
Did I miss a program you love? Let me know.
Notes mentioning this note
There are no notes linking to this note.