Social Emotional Learning (SEL) & Prevention Programming

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process through which students and adults develop essential skills for life success. These skills include self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Together, these competencies help individuals manage emotions, build healthy relationships, resolve conflicts, and make thoughtful, ethical choices.

SEL plays a crucial role in academic performance and overall well-being. Students with strong social and emotional skills are better equipped to handle stress, communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and adapt to challenges and skills that are vital not only in school but throughout life and in the workplace.

As a district, Pickerington Local Schools is committed to preparing students for lifelong success by integrating SEL into the educational experience at all levels. Our Social Emotional Learning and Prevention Programming provides students with the tools they need to grow emotionally, connect socially, and thrive academically.

District-Wide SEL and Prevention Support

Students across all schools in Pickerington Local School District benefit from a comprehensive framework of SEL and prevention initiatives. These programs are designed to:

• Foster emotional intelligence and resilience
• Build a safe and inclusive school culture
• Equip students with tools to avoid risky behaviors
• Support mental health and wellness
• Enhance peer relationships and social engagement

For a deeper dive into why SEL is vital for both students and adults, we encourage you to explore the  Fundamentals of SEL.

More resources below for:

Grades K-4            Grades 5-6              Grades 7-8            Grades 9-12            District-Wide

 

Grades K-4    

 

Red Ribbon Campaign

 

 

  ROX     

 

 

    The Great Kindness Challenge 

 

 

    The Incredible Years 

 

 

 Second Step 

 

 

 

Grades 5-6 

 

   7 Mindsets 

 

 

D.A.R.E.

 

 

Grades 7-8

Web Leader 

 

 

  ROX     

 

 

MindWise

 

 

 

Grades 9-12 

 

Link Crew

 

 

MindWise

 

 

 

 

District-Wide

  & And S.M.A.R.T Labs   Heart Math 

 

Start with Hello 

Say Something

School Counselors: Supporting Student Success

School counselors play a vital role in helping all students thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. In Pickerington Local School District (PLSD), each school has dedicated school counselor support tailored to meet the developmental needs of students at every level:

• Elementary & Middle Schools: At least one school counselor is assigned to each building
   
• Junior High Schools: Three school counselors serve each junior high
   
• High Schools: Five school counselors are available to support students at each high school

School Counselors provide comprehensive support in three key areas:

Academic Support

School Counselors help students set goals, build effective study habits, and manage academic challenges. Through personalized planning, classroom lessons, and individual or group sessions, students are guided to achieve their full academic potential.

College & Career Readiness

Students receive guidance on their future paths whether they plan to attend college, join the armed services, pursue trade schools, or enter the workforce. School Counselors assist with college applications, financial aid, career exploration, and more to ensure each student has a plan for life after graduation.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

School Counselors also support students in managing emotions, navigating social dynamics, and developing interpersonal skills. SEL programs and one-on-one counseling help foster resilience, empathy, and strong relationships both inside and outside the classroom.

To connect with your school counselor or learn more about available support, contact your student’s school directly or visit the school’s website for resources and contact information.
Our team is here to support every child in every classroom every day.

School Social Workers: Supporting the Whole Child

PLSD School Social Workers are licensed mental health professionals with advanced degrees (master’s and/or doctorate) who play a crucial role in supporting student well-being. They are uniquely trained to identify and address non-academic barriers to learning, ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.

Working collaboratively with students, families, school staff, and community partners, School Social Workers act as the essential link between home, school, and the community. 

Learn more about the services we provide in the PLSD School Social Worker Brochure.

What Do School Social Workers Do?

Mental Health & Wellness

• Licensed to provide mental health and substance use assessments, intervention, and ongoing support for both individuals and small groups.
   
• Offer personalized care plans to help students navigate emotional and behavioral challenges.
   

Crisis Prevention & Safety

• Trained in Comprehensive Suicide Risk and Threat Assessments, and equipped to provide immediate intervention and crisis response when safety concerns arise.
   
• Support school safety teams in proactive planning and intervention.
   

Community & Family Resources

• Collaborate with educators, families, and external organizations to remove barriers to student success.
   
• Connect families with essential resources including counseling, housing, financial support, and healthcare services.
   

PLSD’s Social Work Team Includes:

• 1 District Social Worker who leads substance use prevention programming, coordinates Teen Intervene, and provides support and supervision for the district’s Social Work Interns.
   
• 1 School Social Worker who provides comprehensive support across all PLSD buildings in the areas of mental health, crisis intervention, and family/community connections.

 

• Social Work Interns have played an important role in supporting students, staff, and families across Pickerington Local Schools. PLSD’s Social Work Internship program partners with universities to give both bachelor's and master's level students practical experience, preparing them for future roles in the mental health profession. Learn more about the services we provide here: Social Worker Internship Program
   

Together, our dedicated team works to ensure that every student receives the social, emotional, and behavioral support they need to succeed both in and out of school.

If you would like to connect with a school social worker or learn more about available supports, please reach out to your school counselor or contact our department directly.

 

Mental Health & Community Resources 

Community and Mental Health Resources for PLSD Families

At Pickerington Local School District (PLSD), we are committed to the well-being of our students, families, and school community. In addition to the support provided by our school social workers and school counselors, PLSD partners with several community and mental health organizations to ensure students and families have access to a wide range of services and supports.

Some of our Community and Mental Health Partners include:

•   WCAP Behavioral Health Services 
•      OhioGuidestone
•         Mental Health America of Ohio
•         New Horizons Mental Health Services
• CarePortal
•       Fairfield County Family, Adult & Children First Council

These agencies provide support ranging from counseling, case management, parenting resources, substance use support, and much more.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, you are not alone. Immediate, confidential help is available:

• Call or Text 988 – Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
  Get free, 24/7 support for mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, or emotional distress.
  Learn more or chat online at 988lifeline.org
• Text "4HOPE" to 741741 – Crisis Text Line
  A trained crisis counselor will respond and help you through any difficult moment.
  crisistextline.org
• Fairfield County 24-Hour Crisis Line:
  Call (740) 687-8255 for local mental health emergencies or support.
• Nationwide Children’s Hospital 24 hour Youth Psychiatric Crisis Line:

Call (614) 722-1800 for teen mental health emergencies and support

Need Help Now for Community Resources?
Dial 2-1-1
Fairfield County’s 2-1-1 Information & Referral Service is a free, confidential helpline available 24/7 to connect individuals with local services including mental health, housing, food assistance, and crisis support. Visit www.211fairfield.org or call 2-1-1 from any phone.

If you're unsure where to start or would like help connecting with a community agency, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your school building. A School Counselor or Social Worker will gladly assist you in finding the right resources and support for your family’s unique needs.