Why Social-Emotional Learning Belongs in CTAE Classrooms — Especially in Agriculture

Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs are designed to prepare students with hands-on skills and real-world knowledge - but without Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), something important is missing. As a long-term substitute teaching agriculture to grades 9–12, I’ve experienced firsthand how discipline challenges in an elective class can overshadow even the best-planned lessons. That’s why incorporating SEL isn’t just helpful - it’s necessary.

The Benefits of SEL in CTAE

1. Better Classroom Discipline & Respect
In many CTAE electives, students don’t have to be there - they choose to be. That can make discipline unpredictable. SEL focuses on self-awareness, self-management, and responsible decision-making - skills that directly impact behavior and classroom culture. When students feel seen and respected, they are more likely to show respect in return.

2. Real-World Career Readiness
Employers aren’t just asking for technical skills. They want workers who can communicate, solve problems, manage stress, and work as a team. SEL builds those “soft skills” naturally through classroom projects, team tasks, and reflective activities. By adding SEL, we’re not only teaching agriculture - we’re teaching how to succeed in life.

3. Stronger Teacher–Student Relationships
As a long-term substitute, building trust quickly is critical. SEL gives me tools to connect - simple practices like goal-setting circles, reflection journals, and “check-in before instruction” routines help students realize that I care about them, not just their grades. When students feel emotionally safe, participation improves and disruptions decrease.

4. Empowered, Engaged Learners
Whether we’re planting seeds or learning the FFA Creed, SEL helps students see the “why” behind what they’re doing. It teaches them to take ownership - of their work, their emotions, and their future. Agriculture becomes more than a class - it becomes a space for growth.

“SEL doesn’t take time away from learning - it gives students the mindset to make learning possible.” -karengordon

Final Thought

In CTAE classrooms like mine, SEL isn’t an extra - it’s the foundation that holds everything together. By blending hands-on agricultural education with emotional intelligence, we’re growing more than crops. We’re growing leaders.