Maurice J. Elias is Professor of Psychology, Director of the Social-Emotional and Character Development Lab, and Co-Director of the Academy for Social-Emotional Learning in Schools at Rutgers University, USA. He also is a founding member of SEL4US, a national alliance of state social-emotional learning advocacy and implementation support organizations. Dr. Elias is the author of Nurturing Students' Character: Everyday Teaching Activities for Social-Emotional Learning, with Dr. Jeffrey S. Kress.

"In this book, Mo Elias, who has done so much already to advance the theory and practice of social-emotional learning and wed it with corresponding work in character education, weaves together a range of powerful approaches and methods for creating the kinds of classrooms and schools where students can optimally learn and flourish. Ranging across SEL, classroom climate, teacher wellness, growth mindset, and other powerful approaches, he crafts a tapestry of practical ways for educators to rethink and redesign education."—Marvin W Berkowitz, Ph.D., Founders Professor of Education and UM System Thomas Jefferson Fellow in the Center for Character and Citizenship at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, USA“Dr. Elias has dedicated his life to uplifting students, educators, and schools. In this book, he reveals the powerful bond between young people and their teachers, illustrating how nurturing both creates vibrant schools where children can flourish, and teachers feel valued and supported.”—Amy Cranston, Ed.D., Executive Director of SEL4CA"For decades, Dr. Maurice Elias has been a guiding force in shaping how we understand the social, emotional, and moral dimensions of education. His work transcends theory—it transforms practice and restores humanity to the heart of teaching and learning. Through his vision and compassion, he shows us that education is not merely about achievement, but about cultivating empathy, resilience, and purpose. This book is not only timely; it is timeless."—Norris M. Haynes, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist, Professor of Educational Leadership and Psychology at Southern Connecticut State University, USA, and Member of the CASEL Founding Leadership Team"Pulling from his decades of research and practical experience, Maurice Elias provides educators with eight approaches, such as creating positive classroom and school climates, promoting inspiration and human dignity, fostering students’ intrinsic motivation, and restoring the soul of educators. Each “approach” is clearly described, supported with practical examples and, best of all, super easy methods for implementing immediately. Not only has [Dr. Elias] done the hard work of organizing an enormous body of research into succinct methods for classroom implementation, he also speaks to educators’ hearts. He understands that most of us who chose education as a career did so to make a difference in the lives of students and the world—and this book helps us do just that."—Greater Good Magazine, "Our Favorite Books for Educators in 2025"

• 1. Inspiring Students and Providing a Learning Climate in Which They Will Thrive 2. Educational Approach A: Creating Positive Classroom and School Culture and Climate 3. Educational Approach B: Assessing Climate Informally to Ensure Its Quality 4. Educational Approach C: Encouraging Students’ Strengths and Growth Mindset 5. Educational Approach D: Promoting Sources of Inspiration and Human Dignity 6. Educational Approach E: Articulating Personal Values and Sense of Positive Purpose 7. Educational Approach F: Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude 8. Educational Approach G: Developing Students’ Intrinsic Motivation and Engagement 9. Educational Approach H: Refreshing and Restoring the Soul of Educators Conclusion