Social-Emotional Learning with Erin Gruwell, the Freedom Writers, and Waldorf University

Learn More about the Freedom Writers Foundation

Why Social Emotional Learning?

Research has shown that Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) can:

Improve academic performance
Reduce behavioral problems
Enhance social skills
Increase empathy
And foster positive attitudes toward self and others

SEL can also help us deal with stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and other mental health issues that may arise in our lives.

But how can we learn and practice SEL effectively? Where can we find guidance and support from experts who have proven experience in teaching SEL to diverse groups of learners?

The answer is Waldorf University's Master of Education in Social-Emotional Learning designed by Erin Gruwell and the Freedom Writers Foundation.

Erin Gruwell is a renowned educator, author, speaker, and activist who has dedicated her career to promoting SEL among students from marginalized backgrounds. She is best known for her work with the Freedom Writers, a group of 150 students from Long Beach, California who overcame poverty, violence, racism, trauma, and low expectations through writing and sharing their stories.

The M. Ed in Social Emotional Learning and the Graduate Certificate in Social Emotional Learning are based on the learned experience recorded in Erin Gruwell's best-selling book The Freedom Writers Diary and its companion guide, The Freedom Writers Teacher’s Guide. Each course consists of various modules that include readings, videos, discussions, assignments, and reflections.

By completing the Masters of Education in Social Emotional Learning you will be able to:

Learn from Erin Gruwell's inspiring stories and insights on how she transformed her classroom into a community of learners who supported each other through their challenges and celebrated their achievements.
Explore your own identity and values and how they shape your worldview and interactions with others.
Appreciate the diversity of perspectives and experiences among your peers and across cultures.
Develop skills for resolving conflicts peacefully and constructively through dialogue and collaboration.
Engage in civic action projects that address social issues that matter to you and your community.

Your faculty for these SEL programs are certified instructors who have been trained by Erin Gruwell and the Freedom Writers Foundation on how to facilitate SEL effectively online. You will also have access to a network of fellow learners who share your passion for SEL and social justice.

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Waldorf University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission,
an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Why Waldorf?

Regionally Accredited

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Waldorf provides students with a well-rounded understanding of their chosen field through industry best practices and emerging trends.
Affordable Tuition

Waldorf has one of the most affordable tuition rates in Iowa – and across the nation.
Flexible Online Courses

Waldorf’s flexible online courses allow you to schedule classes around your busy schedule. Whether you’re working, playing or spending time with friends and family, Waldorf understands that time spent outside of the classroom is just as important as time spent in it.
Rich History

Waldorf has a rich history within the state of Iowa. For more than 100 years, we have provided continuous academic excellence and civic outreach in and around the vibrant Forest City community, upholding a credo that will continue well into the next generation of learning.
Supportive Faculty and Staff

Our tight-knit team of professors, coaches and administration work together to put you first. We believe that every student deserves a dedicated support system in the classroom – and everywhere else.
Tradition

Waldorf’s core strengths are its history and strong values. Our original founders valued service to community—and that hasn’t changed. Most importantly, we understand this experience as a gift from God that comes with a responsibility to serve the world.