A Conversation With Richard Hughes

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

SEL and EQ impact everything we do in our schools. The educational practices of the past, coupled with the pandemic, have created a dynamic where we must finally focus on addressing trauma and the well-being of all those entering our schools.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

As humans, we are constantly looking to make connections and improve ourselves. Trauma from Adverse Child Experiences (ACE) impacts how we see and interact with the world. By owning my own story of trauma, I’ve been better able to help others through training and speaking engagements.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

The factory model of education continues despite the growing challenges our students, families and staff face. We must move from a model of compliance to a model when we learn about ourselves, how our brain works and trauma’s impact on learning and connecting.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

The pandemic has accelerated change in our schools. We have the opportunity to change how we view practices such as grading, curriculum, and discipline with an SEL lens.