Developed over three decades of implementation in a wide range of schools, this research-validated curriculum focuses on teaching students to be reflective, nonimpulsive, and responsible decision makers and problem solvers-while emphasizing essential literacy skills. It is ideal for classroom use and can be adapted for small-group settings.The program uses a variety of cooperative learning methods, including small-group brainstorming, problem-solving, and role-playing activities. Students learn skills such as self-control, listening, respectful communication, giving and receiving help, and working cooperatively and fairly in groups. The manual and accompanying CD include numerous reproducible worksheets.

SDM/SPS influences student behavior, academic learning, and social and emotional life. It promotes a multicultural perspective by building group cohesion, acceptance of differences, and the ability to understand different points of view.

SDM/SPS has been recognized as:

an Exemplary Evidence-Based Social-Emotional Learning Program by CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning)
a Statewide Model Program for Substance Abuse Prevention by the New Jersey State Department of Education
a Promising Program by the Expert Panel, U.S. Department of Education Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools
an Exemplary Evidence-Based, School-Based Learning Program by NASP (the National Association of School Psychologists)


Separate volumes of the SDM/SPS curriculum are available for grades 2-3 and 4-5. As an ideal extension of the elementary curriculum, the authors have also written an SDM/SPS manual for working with middle school students.