Growing Minds, Greener Futures: Integrating SEL and Environmental Literacy through Nature-Based Learning

Room: 214
Time: 3:00pm – 4:00pm

Join Laguna Beach Unified School District as they present their innovative approach to integrating Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) with environmental literacy through nature-based education. Discover how outdoor learning experiences are fostering resilience, optimism, and well-being in students while promoting environmental stewardship.

This session will explore practical strategies for merging SEL and environmental education, share real-world examples from Laguna Beach USD, and provide insights into the positive impact these programs have on student engagement and holistic development.

Attendees of this session will gain valuable insights into the powerful intersection of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and environmental literacy through nature-based education. With increasing emphasis on student well-being and environmental responsibility, this session will provide practical tools and strategies to enhance both in your school or district.

By learning from Laguna Beach USD’s program, participants will discover how nature-based SEL can foster resilience, optimism, and responsible decision-making in students, while also cultivating environmental stewardship. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or advocate for student wellness and sustainability, this session offers actionable steps to create outdoor learning experiences that improve mental health and academic performance and foster a greener future.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the Connection Between SEL and Nature:
Participants will be able to articulate the relationship between social and emotional learning (SEL) and environmental literacy, and how nature-based learning supports both areas.

Implement Nature-Based SEL Activities:
Attendees will leave with practical strategies and activities to integrate nature into SEL instruction, enhancing student well-being, resilience, and responsible decision-making.

Develop Sustainable Outdoor Learning Programs:
Participants will learn how to design and implement sustainable, practices using outdoor spaces that align with environmental literacy and student wellness goals.

Measure the Impact of Nature-Based Learning:
Attendees will gain insights into evaluating the effectiveness of nature-based learning on student engagement, mental health, and academic performance, with examples from Laguna Beach USD’s programs.

Speakers:

Gloria Harwood, Coordinator, Environmental Literacy, Laguna Beach USD
Amelia Miscione, Student Support Specialist, Laguna Beach USD, Top of the World Elementary
Megan Humphreys, Student Support Specialist, Laguna Beach USD, Laguna Beach High School

Speaker Photos and Bio’s Coming Soon!

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