MISSION STATEMENT

SEL-Ensemble seeks to demonstrate the inherent value of the arts in Social Emotional Learning and explore ways in which building ensemble may be used as a model to instruct students in cultivating inter-and intra-personal skills.

ABOUT

We offer direct service programming both in-school and OST for PreK – Grade 8 classrooms that range from 10 sessions to 40+sessions, depending on a school’s needs and resources.  SEL-Ensemble focuses specifically on outcomes connecting to the SEL skills of selfmanagement and self-discipline, interpersonal and relationship skills, and selfexpression

and identity as these skills can clearly be demonstrated with success in a drama or performance experience. Student gain is measured through participation in whole groups, small group, partner, and individual arts activities, and students who struggle with joining the class ensemble are pulled to participate in small group intervention.

ARTS INTEGRATION

It is our belief that an arts-based approach, specifically through drama, is a key component to building self-discipline, interpersonal and relationship skills, and self expression and identity.

Laura St. John is founder and president of Play In A Book.  Having spent over twenty years as a Teaching Artist serving thousands of students in more than 50 Chicago Public Schools, Laura provides a unique perspective on the connection between literacy and drama.  Her materials and curriculum give equal weight to both, and create a truly engaging method to develop reading skills.  Laura is a trained actor with a degree in Theatre Performance from Ball State University and she is a member of Actor’s Equity Association, the International Literacy Association, and the Illinois Reading Council, and she is a board member of the Chicago Area Reading Association (CARA).  As author of The Act It Read It Series™ (Play In A Book) and a collaborator on the children's book Through the Cracks (Davis Publications), she is an advocate of an arts-based education.  Laura lives in Chicago with her husband and two daughters.

We are a preferred vendor for both Out of School Time Health and Wellness Products and Community Schools Initiative Partner Agency Services.  Please see the CPS Marketplace shopping portal for more information.