Becoming a RULER Certified School

“It’s a way for children to express their feelings without fear of being laughed at… you notice that other people have the same feelings as you… you see what other people have in common with you.”
~ 5TH GRADE STUDENT

RULER Certification includes successful completion of the professional development sequence for school leaders and educators, and full integration of student curricula, instructional tools, and family workshops.

How does a school become RULER certified?
A school or district becomes a certified user of The RULER Approach when:

• School leaders (superintendents, principals, vice principals) have attended Emotional Literacy for School Leaders
• Master Trainers have been certified in delivering the three program series and supplemental training supports (Train-the-Trainer: The Anchors of Emotional Literacy, Train-the-Trainer: The Feeling Words Curriculum, and Emotional Literacy for Families)
• Educators have used the program tools and classroom program successfully for two years
• Emotional Literacy for Families has been offered to adult family members.

How long does it take to become a RULER certified school?
Initial implementation of The RULER Approach typically extends across a two-year period. The actual length of the rollout depends on the size of the school/network and level of commitment. The comprehensive sustainability model is designed to build capacity within schools and networks using a Train-the-Trainer approach to preserve the programs over time (typically after the first two years). Smaller schools may choose not to adopt a Train-the-Trainer model and work with RULER consultants to deliver trainings directly to all the staff.

How do the two Sustainability models work?
Option 1: Train-the-Trainer Model. Larger networks or districts typically choose a Train-the-Trainer model so that they create capacity internally to roll out training in a cost effective way. Our Train-the-Trainer model prepares school leaders, educators, and parent leaders to become master trainers. Select individuals attend intensive workshops delivered by senior RULER trainers. Master trainers are certified to deliver:

• Workshops to faculty and staff
• Coaching support
• Workshops to parents

This type of model supports a gradual roll out and ensures that all educators and staff (including those that join the faculty each year) are trained on The RULER Approach. The master trainers are the RULER ambassadors to the school or network and receive invitations to continuous web-based trainings offered by Ruler Group as program enhancements become available. The master trainers also disseminate RULER enhancements school- or district-wide. Schools may choose to host an onsite master training or attend one being offered by Ruler Group.

Option 2: RULER Training Model. Smaller districts or schools may choose the “external” training model such that their educators, staff, and adult family members participate in trainings offered by the trainers and senior consultants of Ruler Group.

What are the costs associated with becoming a RULER certified school?
The primary costs associated for bringing The RULER Approach to a school or district will be accrued in the first two years of implementation. Costs associated with implementation and sustainability in subsequent years, include those related to materials to train and develop new educators and parents, ongoing consulting as needed, and attendance at conferences and webinars.