The Cleveland ISD Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Department is dedicated to supporting the social, emotional, and academic growth of all students by equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in school and life. Through evidence-based SEL instruction, targeted individual and group support, and collaborative partnerships with educators and families, the department fosters emotional intelligence, resilience, empathy, and responsible decision-making. As a vital part of the District’s Crisis Response team, the SEL Department also provides timely assistance during challenging situations. Our mission is to nurture a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where every student can develop self-awareness, build healthy relationships, and become a responsible, engaged member of the community.
Mental Health
In addition to promoting social and emotional growth, the SEL Department recognizes the importance of mental health as a critical component of student well-being. By integrating mental health awareness into school-wide practices, offering early intervention resources, and collaborating with counselors and mental health professionals, the department helps ensure that students receive the support they need to manage stress, cope with challenges, and build lifelong wellness habits. This proactive approach empowers students to recognize and seek help for mental health concerns, reinforcing a culture where mental wellness is prioritized and stigma is reduced.
SEL Curriculum: The primary objective of the SEL curriculum component is to assist every student in acquiring fundamental life skills. Seven areas have been identified for the guidance curriculum:
Self Confidence Development
Motivation to Achieve
Decision-making, Goal Setting, Planning, and Problem-solving Skills
Interpersonal Effectiveness
Communication Skills
Cross-cultural Effectiveness
Responsible Behavior
Responsive Services: The purpose of this components is to advocate for students who face immediate personal challenges or issues that jeopardize their ongoing personal-social, career, and/or educational growth through Short-term individual counseling, small group counseling, academic concerns, school and personal related concerns.
Individual Planning: The aim of individual planning is to assist every student in organizing, overseeing, and controlling their individual educational, career, and personal-social growth.
System Support: The system support component encompasses services and management activities that indirectly enhance students' experience. These services encompass: staff development, parent education workshops, teachers and administration support. school climate, community stakeholders support.
If you or someone you know is in danger to themselves or others or needs immediate emotional assistance please contact:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 9-8-8
Crisis Intervention Center Hotline: 1-800-437-0303
Tri-County 24 Hour Crisis Hotline: 1-800-659-6694
Crisis Center of Southeast Texas 1-800-793-2273
Dial 911
To report child abuse or neglect, contact law enforcement or Child Protective Services.
The BASE (Behavioral Academic Support Education) program is tailored to assist Secondary School students when encountering behavioral and academic obstacles that could impede their progress in a conventional educational environment. It is structured to provide a supportive setting where students can enhance their academic abilities and emotional intelligence.
What every parent and caregiver needs to know!
The Stay Safe. Speak Up! Student Safety Reporting System is provided for students and parents to report concerns to school officials which may affect the peace of mind of students or jeopardize the safety of people or school facilities.
Communities In Schools (CIS) is a program aimed at preventing dropouts, which receives funding from the Texas Legislature and is overseen by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). CIS collaborates with school staff to create and implement a comprehensive Integrated Student Support (ISS) program that is specifically designed to address both academic and non-academic obstacles that hinder students' achievements.
Services Provided by CIS in Texas
Mental and Behavioral Health Services - including a variety of behavioral health interventions, skill building activities, crisis response
Health and Human Services - including connections to health services, basic needs assistance
Parental and Family Engagement Services - including home visits and consultation
Academic Enhancement and Support Services - including tutoring, developing study skills
Attendance and Engagement Services - including attendance initiatives and re-engagement efforts
College and Career Readiness Services - including post-secondary and career exploration, employment skills training, college visits
Enrichment Services - including training, extended learning time, school climate activities
Case Management Services - including academic and attendance monitoring, check-ins, service coordination. TEA. www.tea.texas.gov. Accessed 19 June 2024.
Dr. Tyra Hodge
Assistant Director of Social Emotional Learning
Mental Health
PBIS
Crisis Wrap-Around Director
Foster Care Liaison
Threat Assessment Coordinator
Crisis Response Team Coordinator
281-592-8717 ext. 1129
Ms. Tonia Gaston
Elementary Counselor of the Year
2023-2024
Ms. Jan Larkins
Secondary Counselor of the Year
2023-2024