Social and emotional learning (SEL) is evidence-based whole child education that teaches fundamental emotional and social competencies such as calming anger, initiating friendships, resolving conflicts respectfully, persisting despite setbacks, and making ethical choices. New research demonstrates that SEL instruction promotes positive behavior, prevents problem behavior, and, surprisingly, significantly increases academic achievement. Illinois has SEL standards and statewide implementation strategies. Learn about them in this session, along with the research, SEL's national and international growth, and how schools and districts can get SEL started now.