A Conversation With Vera Thomas

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

Social emotional learning (SEL) helps students of all ages to better comprehend their emotions, to feel those emotions fully, and demonstrate empathy for others. EQ, the ability to recognize emotion in yourself and others, and to use that awareness to guide your decisions. Both are lacking in today’s society and the awareness must begin at the earliest age possible.

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

From a personal perspective, having grown up bullied and ridiculed, it was absolutely necessary for me to learn how to be in touch with and control my emotions. I could not teach how to do this if not able to do for myself. Using tools I have incorporated into my own life enhances what I can do to guide others through the process. It is an ongoing process.

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

1. How some teachers relate, respond and react to students.
2. The teaching of SEL and EQ as well as financial literacy.

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

The opportunity to teach SEL and EQ techniques and applying them daily will enhance the school experience for both the student and teacher. Teachers and parents recognizing their impact on children.