A Deeper Dive Into the Relationship Between Social-Emotional Competencies and Reading Proficiency in Third Grade

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 10:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: Diverse Primary School Perspectives: Educator and Student SEL (Table 1)

Abstract

This study investigates the connection between social-emotional competencies (SEC) and reading proficiency in third grade, considering foundational reading skills. Utilizing data from a mid-sized suburban district, we analyzed the impact of SEC measured at the beginning of the year and its growth on end-of-year reading performance. Results indicate significant positive relationships between fall SEC scores, their growth over the year, and reading proficiency, even when accounting for foundational reading skills. This highlights the importance of integrating SEC development in early education to support academic success, advocating for a holistic educational approach that includes social-emotional learning as a fundamental component of literacy programs.

Author

• Essie Sutton, Branching Minds