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Social Emotional Learning

RULER

RULER is a social emotional learning (SEL) approach that is based on building community understanding around emotional intelligence and using four simple tools for helping teachers, staff, students, and families learn and practice SEL skills. The approach was developed by the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, which is directed by Dr. Marc Brackett.

RULER is an acronym for the 5 key skills of emotional intelligence:

Recognizing emotions in ourselves and othersUnderstanding the causes and consequences of emotionsLabeling emotions accuratelyExpressing emotions in accordance with cultural norms and social contextRegulating emotions effectively

The RULER Approach at EA

Lower School

Lower school students are using Morning Meeting time for RULER lessons each week. 

Middle School

Middle School Students are receiving RULER lessons through advisories.  

Upper School

Upper School students are receiving RULER lessons through advisories. 

Resources For Parents


Emotion’s Matter Mindset:

Dr. Marc Brackett‘s blog post: There's No Such Thing as a Bad Emotion 

Download Parent Tip Sheet


The Charter:

How to Create a Family Charter

Dr. Marc Brackett's blog post: Emotions at Home: How Do We Want to Feel? (includes step-by-step guide to creating a family Charter)

Webinar from the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence: How We Want to Feel at Home: Creating a Family Charter


The Mood Meter:

Guided Mood meter reflection video

Dr. Marc Brackett’s blog: The Colors of Our Emotions

Webinar: Check-in! Using the Mood Meter at Home (Access webinar slides)

Mood Meter Strategic Resource

Mood Meter Posters:

K – Grade 2 version 1
K – Grade 2 version 2
Grades 3 – 5
Grades 6 – 12
Grades 6 – 12 with questions
RULER version
Script version