Politics, Polarization, and Politicization of Social Emotional Learning and School Boards

• In Event: School Boards in the Storm: Local Governance and Controversy

Abstract

This study analyzes Illinois school board members’ perspectives on SEL, equity, and COVID-19 pandemic. Responses were collected from 63 Illinois school board members in the summer of 2021. The survey included open-ended questions regarding administrator’s opinions about aspects of education related to social emotional learning (SEL), equity, and the pandemic. Findings showed that pandemic responses and addressing equity are divisive issues for school board members. Equity and COVID-19 responses were more divisive issues compared to SEL. These patterns occurred across district type—rural, urban, or suburban; majority minority or majority white; and poverty rates. Analyzing school board members beliefs around divisive issues will better prepare school administrators and communities to work with school boards around these issues.

Authors

• Jenna Mahoney, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
  Presenting Author

• Rachel Roegman, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
  Non-Presenting Author

• Kevin Tan, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
  Non-Presenting Author

• Patrick Rice, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
  Non-Presenting Author