Early Intervention Technical Assistance Portal

SEL Program Comparison

CASEL Guide to Evidence-Based Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Programs

The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) Guide supports educators, program administrators, and early childhood professionals in identifying evidence based social emotional learning (SEL) programs that align with the needs of their communities. To be included in the CASEL Guide to Evidence Based Social and Emotional Learning Programs, each program must undergo an evaluation that meets four research criteria:

  1. Research Design: The study must use an appropriate and rigorous evaluation method.
  2. Implementation Setting: The program must be tested in authentic educational environments.
  3. Statistical Findings: Analyses must demonstrate statistically significant results.
  4. SEL Outcomes: The evaluation must show positive impact on relevant SEL skills or competencies.

The programs below have met CASEL’s evidence standards for preschool level SEL programming.

About CASEL Ratings

SELect Programs

Programs earning the SELect designation represent CASEL’s highest level of evidence. These programs consistently demonstrate positive outcomes across multiple SEL domains and settings. They also provide high quality training and strong implementation supports, offer opportunities for skill practice, and include multi year programming.

SELect program outcomes include:

  • Increased positive social behavior
  • Reduced challenging behavior
  • Reduced emotional distress
  • Improved student reported identity/agency
  • Improved school connectedness*
  • Improved school climate*

*When evaluated in school based settings.

Promising Programs

Programs in this category show positive outcomes in at least two of CASEL’s five core SEL competencies, but do not yet meet all criteria required for SELect status. These programs provide comprehensive SEL instruction and contribute meaningfully to children’s social emotional skill development.

Promising program outcomes include:

  • Improved academic performance
  • Improved SEL skills and attitudes
  • Improved teaching practices

Programs Meeting Criteria

  • PATHS – SELect
  • RULER- SELect
  • Second Step: Early Learning- Promising
  • Tools of the Mind- SELect

Select each tab for more information.

Program Descriptions & Training Requirements for SELect and Promising Programs

Learn More about PATHS

CASEL Designated: SELect
Ages Covered: Pre-K – Grade 3

Description: Lesson-based curriculum promoting emotional awareness, self-control, and problem-solving.

Training: Initial training by certified trainers; coaching and materials provided; translations available.

Learn More About RULER

CASEL Designated: SELect
Ages Covered: Pre-K – Grade 6

Description: Yale-developed systemic approach integrating emotional intelligence into school culture.

Training: Online platform training, coaching, PLCs, and digital tools; materials in Spanish and Mandarin.

Learn More About Second Step

CASEL Designated: Promising
Ages Covered: Pre-K only

Description: Pre-K curriculum focused on self-regulation and social skills using theme cards and puppets.

Training: No formal training required; optional webinars and guides available; materials in Spanish.

Learn More about Tools of the Mind

CASEL Designated: SELect
Ages Covered: Pre-K – K

Description: Play-based curriculum integrating SEL with executive function and peer scaffolding.

Training: Required PD workshops, coaching, and online modules; materials available in Spanish.