It is our desire as a school division to do our very best to ensure that the needs of every student are met. We strive to provide safe, welcoming, and supportive environments where students feel valued, connected, and prepared to learn.
Academic success is closely connected to a student’s social and emotional well-being. Students may experience challenges that affect their ability to focus, manage emotions, build healthy relationships, make responsible decisions, or feel connected at school. Because these concerns are not always easily recognized, Dinwiddie County Public Schools plans to use this year as a pilot year and administer a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener Survey to all 3rd, 6th, and 9^th   grade students. The questions can be viewed on the Student Services page of our website. 

The SEL screener is an age-appropriate set of questions designed to help school staff better understand students’ strengths and identify areas in which additional support may be helpful. The screener is not a test, does not affect grades, and is not used to diagnose a mental health condition. Instead, the information serves as one of several tools schools may use to guide student support, strengthen school programs, and connect students with appropriate resources when needed.

Student responses will be handled with care and shared only with authorized school personnel who have a legitimate educational need for the information. If a student’s responses indicate a possible need for additional support, a school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or other appropriate staff member may follow up with the student and, when appropriate, contact the parent or guardian.

We recognize that families are essential partners in supporting students’ well-being. Parents and guardians who do not wish for their child to participate may complete and return the SEL Screener Opt-Out Form by October 6, 2026.

Students who do not participate will not be penalized and will be provided with an appropriate alternative activity during the screening period. Thank you for your continued partnership and trust as we work to support the academic, social, and emotional development of every student. If you have questions about the SEL screener, please contact me at (804) 469-4190 or your child’s school counselor.

Dr. Robbie M. Garnes
Director Student Services
Dinwiddie County Public Schools

For more information visit our Student Services page.