Transforming Education Through Arts & SEL
Led by the Los Angeles County Office of Education's (LACOE) Center for Distance and Online Learning (CDOL), this innovative initiative strategically addresses the unique challenges that youth in foster care and students experiencing homelessness face while benefiting the broader student population.
Through our comprehensive MTSS SEL-Arts Integration program, we serve 5,210 students across 18 schools while training more than 152 teachers and 24 administrators. Our approach expertly infuses art disciplines and Social-Emotional Learning across content areas, creating transformative educational experiences where every student can thrive.
Our integrated approach creates harmonious learning environments where every student's voice contributes to the ensemble of success.
86.7%
Improved Student SEL
83.3%
Increased Engagement
80%
Enhanced Learning
76.7%
Teacher Satisfaction
Promising Learners Project Cohort 7
Mission & Core Objectives
Our Mission
Building upon the success of Cohort 4 (TK-3), the PLP Cohort 7 has expanded to grades 4-8, implementing a comprehensive MTSS SEL-Arts Integration program. Our mission is to create harmonious learning environments that address the unique challenges faced by youth in foster care and students experiencing homelessness while enriching the educational experience for all students.
Core Objectives
- Reduce chronic absenteeism through engagement
- Improve school climate and student wellbeing
- Enhance academic performance through arts integration
- Strengthen support for vulnerable student populations
Program Framework & Approach
Our comprehensive framework integrates evidence-based practices with innovative teaching approaches to create lasting positive change.
Key Compoments
- Social-Emotional Learning Integration
- CASEL Competencies Framework
- California Content Standards Alignment
- Arts Integration & Creative Expression
Strategic Approach
- Evidence-based, Non-punitive Practices
- Multi-tiered System of Support
- Community-based Organization Partnerships
- Data-driven Decision Making
Support Network
- LACOE specialized units collaboration*
- Community organization partnerships
- Data-driven decision-making processes
*See LACOE Partnerships below
Implementation & Support
- Professional Development Programs
- LACOE Support Network Integration
- Innovative Teaching Strategies
LACOE Partnerships
Implementation & Support
Professional Development
- Innovative assembly-style training combining teachers and students
- PLP Symposium with engaging workshops and keynotes
- Customized coaching and Implementation support
- CANVAS online learning modules
LACOE Support Network
- Foster Care Unit collaboration
- Child Welfare and Attendance Unit partnership
- Homeless Unit alliance
- Data and Assessment Unit integration
Innovative Strategies & Tools
Doodle Strategy Integration*
- Doodle Check-in for emotional awareness
- Name & Double Doodle for engagement
- Neuro Doodle & Blind Contour techniques
*access Doodle Strategy videos
Impact Metrics
- 86.7% increased student SEL outcomes
- 83.3% increased student enjoyment
- 80.0% enhanced student engagement
Arts-based Learning Techniques
Comprehensive integration of creative arts practices across curriculum
SEL-focused Creative Activities
Activities designed to enhance social-emotional development through artistic expression
Collaborative Achievement Model
District Support Package
- Customized Implementation support
- Dedicated Padlet for Community of Practice (COP)
- Regular district-level administrator meetings
- Principal end-of-year meetings
- Year One review and Year Two expectations planning
- PLP Participant Checklist support
Support Elements
-
Professional Development
Regular coaching sessions and workshops
-
Resource Sharing
Implementation strategies and materials
-
Data Analysis
Regular assessment and improvement workshops
District Success Stories
Students Empowered: 1,297
- TK-8th grade comprehensive integration
- Enhanced SEL practices
- Strong community partnerships
- Innovative arts integration
Students Served: 1,478
- Evidence-based practices
- Multi-tiered support system
- Professional development focus
- Data-driven implementation
Students Reached: 2,435
- Comprehensive arts program
- Expanded learning opportunities
- Family engagement focus
- Community partnership growth
Distinguished Partners & Programs
Barbara Vera - Conga Kids
"Bridges to America"
Program Features:
- 60-minute dynamic performances program
- Cultural exploration through dance
- African diaspora journey focus
- Interactive student engagement
Student Impace:
- Enhanced cultural understanding and development
- Interactive student engagement
- Various dance styles exploration
- Community building through arts
Kellen Law
Theater Integration
Professional Background:
- Expert in theater for young audiences
- B.F.A. in Acting from Syracuse University
- Experience with The Pasadena Playhouse
- Focus on social-emotional development
Program Impact:
- Innovative drama exercises
- Student confidence building
- Community engagement strategies
- Cultural responsiveness training
Jonathan Grant Brown
Keynote Speaker & Educational Innovator
Expertise & Background:
- M.Ed. in Educational Leadership
- Former Director of First Year Seminar
- Student Success Center Leader at UTPB
Impact Areas:
- Educational Innovation Leadership
- Student Empowerment Strategies
- Foster Youth Support Systems
- Relationship-Based Learning
Voices of Impact
Leadership Perspectives
"The keynote speech provided exactly what our teachers needed - a perfect blend of inspiration and actionable steps. Jonathan was absolutely the star of the show!"
- Pamela Cruz, Principal, Baldwin Park USD
"What made the most impact has been the addition of our Wellness room. It has been a true game-changer for many of our students who lacked motivation."
- School Principal, Hacienda La Puente USD
Teacher Insights
"My students were engaged and enjoyed the lesson immensely. They all seemed very joyful and excited about the lesson. It was a very creative way for our students to learn."
- 6th Grade Teacher, Keppel Union SD
"The training was more of an experience. I'd love to see curriculum or lessons that can be implemented within the subject matters so it is seamless."
- Elementary Teacher, Baldwin Park USD
Support Staff Perspectives
"Jonathan's message was truly inspiring. His insights into supporting foster and unhoused youth gave us practical strategies while touching our hearts."
- Gloria Calderon, Counselor, Hacienda La Puente USD
"Amazing day! Such a great reminder of why we do what we do! Thank you for all the resources and strategies."
- Curriculum Coach, Baldwin Park USD
Future Initiatives: 2024-2025
Strategic Development
- Expanded MTSS SEL-Arts Integration
- Enhanced data tracking systems
- Strengthened cross-district collaboration
Family & Community
- Active participation in LEA parent events
- Enhanced Parent University programming
- Expanded SSC, ELAC, DELAC, and PTA involvement
- Development of parent resources for SEL and arts support
- Increased community organization collaboration
Program Growth
- Wellness spaces development
- Enhanced arts integration
- Expanded district collaboration
Support Systems
- Expanded professional development
- Enhanced SEL-Arts integration
- Strengthened community partnerships
- Data-driven program refinement
PLP Professional Learning Calendar
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Contact Us
Collective Impact Partners
