Our Framework
Our Expressive Arts Social-Emotional Learning (EASEL) framework develops the mindsets, skills, attitudes, and feelings that help students succeed in school, career, and life. At its core, EASEL focuses on students' fundamental needs for motivation, social connectedness, and self-regulation as prerequisites for learning.
Identity:
We define identity as 'who you are' or 'say that you are'. It encompasses the qualities, beliefs, personality, looks and/or expressions that make a person or group. Identity and self esteem are closely related and developing self esteem and a strong sense of identity are very important to good mental health.
​
Belief:
Belief or a belief system is the invisible force behind a behavior. Together with other factors such as personality, genetic set up and habits, a belief system is one of the strongest forces that affects any decision that we are making.
​
Capability:
Capability is the ability to do things and to choose a way of life according to one's personal belief. Capability can also be looked at as the expression or the articulation of the capacity (performance level), materials and expertise (acquired skills) needed in order to perform core functions of a job or role. Often only with the use of external resources.
​
Behavior:
Behavior is the way in which one acts or conducts oneself, especially towards others. Behavior is both conditioned and determined by its own outcomes or consequences (rewards and punishments).
​
Environment:
Environment looks at a collective perspective of values and beliefs by way of association. It can define right and wrong behaviors toward a specific location or community, as well as create the fundamentals of point of view of the world we live in.
Purpose:
Spirituality is a sense of connection to something much bigger than self and involves a search for meaning in life.
Our Programs
Our ultimate goal is to see under-resourced teens become successful adults, ready for college and/or a career in the arts; not just problem free, but responsible, contributing, mentally healthy adults in society who experience life satisfaction and a sense of identity, purpose, and meaning.
Success embodies the demonstration of authenticity, resilience and confidence, regardless of the environment or the behavior of others. Success looks like knowing who you are, your purpose in life, having the tenacity to overcome difficulty and maximize potential, and continuing to practice healthy behaviors that positively influence self, others, and the world.
