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HTTPS://WWW.CLEVERCHARACTERS.ORG/
CLEVER CHARACTERS
~ Statement of Purpose ~
We exist for the transformation of urban education!
Since many youth are not engaged in class, we coach mentors to teach Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) in Kindergarten through 12th grade settings. Our weekly lessons empower mentors to infuse SEL into their daily practice. Proven results of effective SEL programs are better grades, better behaviors, and improved self-esteem.
12% INCREASE
In 2016, 16 Juniors started with less than 3.0 GPAs. With weekly SEL lessons, they improved their GPAs by 12% or .28 points. These students are now more selective to get into better colleges and receive more tuition assistance.
67% DECREASE
In 2017, our SEL intervention was able to support a 67% decrease in the amount of failures within an entire class of Sophomore students.
CHARACTER IMPROVEMENT
In 2018, our elementary school collaborators report improved behaviors. Students report increased ability to use SEL skills at home and within their communities as well.
ASSESSMENT GROWTH
In 2019, at two elementary schools, mentored and tutored students led their entire schools with Reading and Math Assessment growth.
THE WORK - WHAT TO EXPECT!
OUR SERVICE
We coach mentors to teach Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) lessons that engage youth and empower teachers to infuse SEL into their daily practice.
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OUR VISION
To reform Urban Education by making SEL easy for mentors and exciting for youth.
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This commitment is reflected in our commitment to strengthen character education for academic and life success. Thus more, our works shows how the service of youth and character development supports life "fulfillment."
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SEL MENTORING PRACTICE
- Mindfulness ExerciseÂ
- Weekly SEL Theme/SkillÂ
- Activation Exercises (for reinforcement)
- Affirmations
- Group ChantÂ
*Activation Exercises should happen daily
*Circles provide great communal atmosphereÂ
*Adults should also conduct this practice regularly
ADULT SUPPORT FOR MENTORING
- Powerful quarterly professional developments to focus on impact of SEL on adults and youth (for ultimate life fulfillment)
- Weekly virtual coaching via zoom
- On site support to sustain mentor and mentee behaviors
- On site support to sustain "Values Based Cultural Norms (VBCN)"
SAMPLE INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO
November 2019
OUR STORY &Â MISSION
Four teenagers and a Chicago Public School Teacher - Damien Howard - set out to start a company to impact youth.
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Our teen employees grew skills as business owners and community leaders.
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INTENDED RESULTS:
IMPROVED GRADES
BETTER BEHAVIORS
INCREASED SELF-ESTEEM
