We all want children to have a positive self-image, be resilient when faced with adversity, and create healthy relationships. But what do these aspirations have to do with social-emotional learning (SEL)? States across the country have legislatively mandated SEL as a way of combating society’s ills rather than through the lens of equity.

It’s the start of a new school year and another round of resolutions for better leadership, teaching, and learning. Then we confront the reality that the vast majority of factors that influence education will be the same.