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Wisconsin Using the Pyramid Model to Expand SEL

Wisconsin’s SS/HS State Team and LEA’s worked in collaboration with the state Pyramid Model Implementation Team to expand early childhood social emotional learning (SEL) and development across the state through 1) broad implementation of the Pyramid Model, and 2) improving early identification of children at risk for SEL difficulties. By 2017, Wisconsin had 20 additional Ages and Stages Questionnaires: Social-Emotional (ASQ-SE) trainers with the capacity to reach 180 districts and community partners; and 103 new Positive Solutions for Families trainers. ASQ- SE screening processes were fully implemented in the three SS/HS LEA’s reaching significantly more children than years prior. Research showed children’s problem behaviors decreased more in the Pyramid Model classrooms than the reported behaviors of students in the comparison classrooms. SS/HS State Program Coordinator, Beth Herman, also reported reductions in problem behaviors and the increases in social skills for at-risk students in the Pyramid Model classrooms were so great that these students were no longer considered at-risk at the conclusion of the school year, displaying typical behaviors and typical social skills of 4-year-old children.

Wisconsin’s SS/HS team joined in partnership with the Pyramid Model Implementation team to develop a system of supports to enhance social and emotional competence in infants, toddlers and young children; and to assure early identification of children at risk for SEL difficulties. To achieve this, they worked with LEA’s to address key implementation drivers: competency, leadership and organization. Coaching focused on evidence-based practice and fidelity; supports for teachers; coaching for district leadership team along with consultation on program-wide implementation were also provided.

“I’m fully committed to the Pyramid Model because it works for our children, teachers and parents.”  

                                                                   Culleen Whitthuhn, Director of Early Learning

                                                                   Racine Early Education Center (REE Center)

Program results continue to build support for further expansion and sustainability of the Pyramid Model. Effective implementation and continued expansion of the Pyramid Model is moving the needle to ensure the social and emotional well-being of Wisconsin’s infants, young children, and their families.

Topics: 
Behavioral Health/Mental Health
Capacity Building/Workforce Development
Developmentally Appropriate
Early Childhood
Evaluation
Evidence Based/Informed
Policy
Screening and Assessment
System Change
Technology
Vulnerable Populations
Framework: 
SS/HS
State: