Tag: Social Emotional Learning

District educators begin training December 6 as part of a multi-year Education Innovation and Research-funded initiative designed to deepen student-teacher relationships and support whole-child development.

The Martin Luther King, Sr. Community Resources Collaborative announces the launch of The Sankofa Chronicles in Jackson Public Schools (JPS), marking a significant step toward strengthening student well-being, self-awareness, and academic engagement across the district. The first professional learning session for participating educators will begin on Saturday, December 6, 2025.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Education’s Education Innovation and Research (EIR) Program, The Sankofa Chronicles is a multimedia social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum rooted in the African principle of looking back to move forward. The Collaborative leads this multi-year initiative in partnership with Spelman College, Morehouse College, Lance Lucas & Associates, Advisory Trail, Empirical Education, the Enlight App, and CWK Network. Jackson Public Schools is among the first districts in the nation to implement the curriculum and will play a key role in shaping its impact.

“Jackson Public Schools is honored to launch The Sankofa Chronicles with the Martin Luther King, Sr. Collaborative and our higher-education partners,” said Laketia Marshall-Thomas, Assistant Superintendent of High Schools. “This work affirms our commitment to culturally grounded, whole-child learning experiences that empower our scholars to see themselves, value their voices, and envision futures filled with promise. It also helps us create learning environments where every child is seen, valued, and equipped to thrive. Our educators are excited to bring this transformative curriculum to life in JPS classrooms.”

Beginning December 6, JPS educators will engage in an introductory professional learning session covering the curriculum’s five SEL competencies, six micro-lessons within each competency, and its full multimedia resource library. Teachers will also receive training on the secure Learning Management System (LMS) platform used for pre-work, implementation guides, and reflection activities, as well as an overview of the coaching and support available throughout the implementation period. Educators will gain exclusive access to the curriculum library, district-supported coaching, and opportunities to earn professional learning hours and stipends.

Grounded in historical insights of wisdom, contemporary student experiences, and multimedia storytelling, the curriculum helps students build self-awareness, strengthen self-management, develop social awareness, improve relationship skills, and make responsible decisions. Its culturally responsive design positions students as central figures in their own learning journey.

“This partnership with Jackson Public Schools reflects our deep commitment to ensuring every child has access to learning experiences that honor their identity and strengthen their sense of possibility,” said Kenneth Palmer, Board Chair of the MLK Sr. Collaborative. “The Sankofa Chronicles is more than a curriculum—it is a bridge between generations, a celebration of culture, and a powerful tool for helping students build the resilience and confidence they need to thrive in school and in life.”

As an implementation partner, Jackson Public Schools will contribute essential insight into how culturally grounded SEL can thrive in school districts. JPS educators will help inform refinements to the curriculum and support the broader national conversation on culturally responsive SEL practices.

As school districts look for meaningful ways to support student well-being, strengthen social-emotional learning, and build culturally responsive classrooms, Sankofa Chronicles offers a fresh, innovative approach centered on storytelling, identity, and the power of reflection.

Districts that get the most out of exploring Sankofa Chronicles take a thoughtful, strategic approach to learning about the program. Here’s what an ideal district does before deciding if the project is the right fit for their schools.

1. Start with a Discovery Conversation

The strongest districts open with an introductory call. This conversation gives leaders a clear understanding of:

• The purpose, mission, and vision behind Sankofa Chronicles
• How the storytelling framework supports SEL competencies
• How the program can complement existing district initiatives
• What rollout, training, and support can look like

This is where district leaders can share their goals and challenges and begin to see how the project might meet their needs.

2. Review Sample Modules and the Teacher Toolkit

Nothing explains Sankofa Chronicles better than the resources themselves. Districts typically request:

• A preview of student-facing multimedia stories
• Lesson plan examples
• Professional development materials
• Family and community engagement resources
• Classroom activities that reinforce SEL skills and cultural connection

This helps leaders visualize how the program works in real instructional settings.

3. Explore the Program Framework

Since the project is still in its early stages of study, districts focus on its design—not on data that isn’t yet available. This includes:

• The SEL competencies we target
• The cultural and historical themes embedded in the stories
• The way the curriculum supports empathy, identity, and reflection
• The rationale behind the storytelling approach

Districts appreciate that Sankofa Chronicles is intentionally structured to align with whole-child priorities while offering fresh, narrative-driven content.

4. Observe a Demo or Training Preview

Ideal districts request a live or recorded walkthrough. This may include:

• A sample module from the LMS
• A look at student discussion prompts
• A snapshot of the teacher experience during PD
• A walkthrough of pacing and recommended delivery

Seeing the flow helps districts understand how teachers and students move through the experience.

5. Meet the Collaborative Partners

Districts value knowing the people who shape the work. They often request introductions or bios for the core partners:

• MLK Sr. Community Resources Collaborative
• Lance Lucas and Associates
• Morehouse College
• Spelman College
• Connect With Kids
• Advisory Trail
• Empirical Education (future research partner)
• Pocket PR+

These conversations help districts feel confident that Sankofa Chronicles is grounded in expertise, thoughtful design, and strong collaboration.

6. Identify an Internal Exploration Team

Before committing, ideal districts bring together a small cross-functional group. This can include:

• SEL or whole-child director
• Curriculum and instruction leader
• School administrator
• Teacher representative
• Family engagement coordinator

This group helps assess fit, readiness, and alignment.

7. Request a Customized Implementation Overview

Once leaders understand the project, districts often ask for a clearer picture of the rollout. They request a customized plan that outlines:

• Ideal grade levels
• Training and PD options
• Classroom pacing
• Teacher support systems
• Engagement touchpoints
• Suggested timeline for launch

With a tailored overview, districts can see how Sankofa Chronicles would integrate into existing high school structures.

A Simple, Strategic Next Step

Districts that take these steps don’t just explore a program—they discover a pathway for strengthening student voice, cultural awareness, and emotional development through storytelling. They begin imagining how the Sankofa principle—learning from the past to move forward—can shape their classrooms, their culture, and their community.

The Sankofa Chronicles isn’t just a curriculum—it’s a movement. Designed to bridge cultural storytelling and social-emotional learning (SEL), the project invites students to reflect on who they are, where they come from, and how they can shape the future. In classrooms across partner schools, teachers are using stories of resilience, heritage, and community to cultivate empathy and connection. Each lesson functions like a mirror and a window—helping students see themselves reflected in history while discovering new perspectives that deepen their emotional intelligence.

Storytelling lies at the heart of The Sankofa Chronicles. Through beautifully produced film segments and guided “Ubuntu Circles,” students explore themes of courage, identity, and belonging. This approach transforms SEL from abstract ideas into tangible experiences. As students watch these stories, they don’t just learn about emotional literacy—they feel it. They begin to understand the power of compassion and the importance of community in ways that transcend textbooks and tests.

Behind this cultural and educational innovation is a powerful network of collaborators. The Martin Luther King Sr. Collaborative leads the initiative alongside esteemed partners such as Morehouse and Spelman Colleges, the CWK Network, Advisory Trail, and Empirical Education. Each partner contributes distinct expertise—from curriculum design to research evaluation—to ensure the project blends cultural authenticity with academic rigor. This unity of purpose reflects the very essence of the Sankofa philosophy: learning from the past to build a better future.

Research plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the program’s impact is both measurable and meaningful. Early evaluations have shown promising results, with students demonstrating increased engagement, stronger self-awareness, and greater empathy. Teachers report that students are not only connecting with history but also discovering their own capacity for leadership and reflection. These findings highlight the potential of culturally responsive education to close opportunity gaps and foster environments where every learner feels seen and valued.

At the center of this work are the educators themselves—the ones bringing The Sankofa Chronicles to life in real classrooms. Through professional development and learning management tools, teachers are equipped to weave the lessons into their daily instruction. One upcoming focus is on “train-the-trainer” sessions that empower educators to lead with confidence, supported by micro-credentialing opportunities and peer collaboration networks. As one teacher noted, “This curriculum doesn’t just change the students—it changes the way we teach.”

The Sankofa Chronicles team continues to expand its reach through conference presentations and educational partnerships. Upcoming appearances at events such as the Digital Learning Annual Conference (DLAC Ignite) and the Georgia EdTech Conference will showcase the project as both a case study in innovation and a model for culturally grounded SEL. These opportunities open the door for school districts nationwide to adopt the program and experience its transformative effects.

Ultimately, The Sankofa Chronicles is a testament to the power of story—to teach, to heal, and to unite. By combining cultural history with emotional learning, it equips students and educators alike with the tools to navigate the complexities of today’s world with empathy, awareness, and purpose. For schools seeking a fresh approach to SEL that honors both heart and heritage, Sankofa offers not just a curriculum—but a path forward.

The Sankofa Chronicles Project has entered an exciting new phase. With video production completed by the Emmy Award–winning CWK Network, the project now has a dynamic set of modules that capture powerful stories and bring history to life through compelling visuals. These videos will serve as the cornerstone of the curriculum, designed to spark meaningful reflection and dialogue among students.

Implementation has officially begun with Jackson Public Schools, marking the first step in introducing the Sankofa Chronicles to classrooms. Teachers and students are starting to engage with the modules and Ubuntu Circle discussions, creating an environment where cultural identity, personal growth, and community connections take center stage. The enthusiasm around this rollout underscores the value and timeliness of the project’s mission.

At the same time, significant progress is being made on the technical infrastructure. Advisory Trail, in collaboration with the Enlight App, is building out the learning management system (LMS) that will house the full curriculum. This platform not only makes the Sankofa Chronicles accessible to teachers and students, but also provides a dedicated space for professional development. Educators will be able to complete training modules, participate in learning communities, and earn professional development credits directly within the LMS, ensuring a seamless integration of teacher preparation and student engagement.

Partnerships with Spelman College, Morehouse College, and Jackson State University continue to enrich the work, ensuring both academic rigor and cultural authenticity. With the launch underway, teacher training embedded in the LMS, and strong collaboration across institutions, Sankofa Chronicles is moving from vision into reality. Momentum is strong, and the project is now positioned to make a transformative impact in schools and communities nationwide.

At Sankofa Chronicles, we believe that social and emotional learning (SEL) should go beyond simply teaching skills. It should transform how educators and students understand themselves, each other, and their communities. That’s why our program is built on a powerful combination of two nationally recognized frameworks—the CASEL Framework for SEL and the Model of Generative Change—woven together through our Learning Management System (LMS). This integration is what makes our process not just unique, but effective and credible.

Grounded in CASEL’s SEL Framework

The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) is the gold standard in SEL. Its framework focuses on five core competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. These competencies are the foundation for creating supportive learning environments where students thrive academically and personally.

By grounding Sankofa Chronicles in CASEL’s proven structure, we ensure that every lesson aligns with best practices in SEL. Our LMS is intentionally designed to guide teachers and students through content that doesn’t just “check the box,” but builds real, lasting skills for life.

Guided by the Model of Generative Change

While CASEL provides a solid foundation, our program takes it a step further by incorporating the Model of Generative Change. This model emphasizes deep transformation—helping individuals and groups not just adjust behaviors, but truly reimagine and reshape their patterns of thinking, relating, and acting.

In practice, that means Sankofa Chronicles doesn’t stop at teaching SEL competencies. It creates opportunities for students and educators to co-create new ways of engaging with themselves, each other, and their cultural identities. The generative approach moves beyond “problem-solving” and into vision-building—aligning beautifully with the African philosophy of Sankofa: looking back to move forward.

The Power of Integration in Our LMS

Our Learning Management System is not just a delivery platform; it’s the bridge where theory meets practice. Through pre-work, interactive workshops, reflection exercises, and community dialogue, the LMS ensures that both CASEL’s evidence-based competencies and the Model of Generative Change’s transformative lens are lived out in real time.

Educators are supported step-by-step:

• Pre-learning modules introduce foundational SEL concepts.
• Workshops and lessons apply these concepts in culturally responsive ways.
• Reflection and collaboration tools help educators integrate insights into their practice and share learnings with peers.

This integration ensures that SEL is not just taught, but experienced—sparking generational shifts in classrooms and communities.

Why This Matters

By weaving CASEL’s widely respected framework with the forward-looking Model of Generative Change, Sankofa Chronicles offers a program that is both credible and innovative. Educators can trust that it is backed by research, and communities can feel confident that it is responsive to cultural context and collective growth.

At Sankofa Chronicles, we’re not just teaching SEL—we’re cultivating new ways of being, learning, and leading.

Across the country, school districts are striving to support students beyond academics—fostering identity, emotional intelligence, and a sense of belonging in all classrooms. The Sankofa Chronicles offers a powerful and practical solution. Rooted in the West African concept of “Sankofa,” meaning “go back and get it,” this multimedia curriculum invites students to reflect on history as a way to better understand themselves and shape their future.

The Sankofa Chronicles is not just another program on a long list of school initiatives. It’s a culturally responsive, Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)-infused experience that equips students with real tools for life. More importantly, it’s designed to be easy to implement—something that school leaders and teachers alike will appreciate.

At its heart, The Sankofa Chronicles connects students with the stories of history, cultural traditions, and community voices in ways that affirm themselves and ignite their curiosity. Through compelling videos, group discussions, journal prompts, and creative assignments, students are drawn into content that feels both familiar and transformative. They’re not just learning dates and events—they’re exploring emotions, relationships, personal values, and the power of their own voices.

Students benefit in multiple ways. They build a stronger sense of cultural identity and belonging, particularly when they see themselves reflected in the stories and leaders they study. These experiences help students feel valued and seen, which is crucial for confidence and school engagement. At the same time, the curriculum builds SEL competencies like self-awareness, empathy, communication, and responsible decision-making. The storytelling approach helps improve literacy, while the emphasis on youth voice encourages leadership and expression.

One of the most significant advantages of The Sankofa Chronicles is its accessibility for educators. It’s not a heavy lift. Each lesson is packaged with clear guides, engaging media, and ready-to-use materials that teachers can implement with little prep time. It’s flexible enough to be integrated into homeroom, advisory periods, ELA, social studies, or even after-school programs. The curriculum can also be used collaboratively by classroom teachers, counselors, and community mentors, offering a shared approach to SEL and cultural learning.

Many teachers worry about the time and effort new programs require—but The Sankofa Chronicles was designed to reduce that stress. A brief onboarding session or optional professional development can get teams started quickly. From there, educators have full access to digital lessons and teaching tools that support them every step of the way.

If you’re a school leader, educator, or community stakeholder, bringing The Sankofa Chronicles to your district starts with identifying how it aligns with your goals. Are you prioritizing SEL? Working on diversity, equity, and inclusion? Looking to improve school climate or deepen student engagement? This program checks all the boxes. It can start as a pilot in one school or be expanded across a district to support systemic growth.

To get started, the Sankofa Chronicles team is available to present the curriculum to your leadership team or school board. They can offer insights from current implementations, discuss pricing and licensing, and even help host community launch events to get buy-in from parents and educators.

Ultimately, The Sankofa Chronicles is more than a curriculum—it’s an opportunity. It empowers students to understand their roots, speak their truth, and build a better future. And it does all of this without burdening the people who care for them most: their teachers.

If you’re ready to explore how this transformative program can work in your school or district, email clarence@lancelucasconsulting.com to learn more or request a conversation.

Because when students know their story, they are better equipped to write the next chapter.

Juneteenth is more than a commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States—it is a powerful reminder of the resilience, resistance, and reclamation embedded in the African American journey. Celebrated on June 19th, this historic day marks the moment in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed. While the delay highlights a painful truth, the celebration that followed symbolizes enduring hope, collective joy, and the unyielding pursuit of justice.

At its core, Juneteenth is an invitation to remember and reflect—and that’s exactly what the Sankofa Chronicles project seeks to do. Inspired by the West African proverb “Sankofa,” meaning “go back and get it,” this project integrates the philosophy of looking to the past to inform and empower the future. Through storytelling, multimedia, and social-emotional learning, the Sankofa Chronicles bridges generations with stories of triumph, struggle, identity, and impact.

Why Juneteenth and Sankofa Belong in the Same Conversation

Juneteenth and Sankofa Chronicles are natural companions in the ongoing journey of healing and empowerment. Both are rooted in truth-telling. Both honor legacy. And both call us to action—particularly in how we educate the next generation.

As Sankofa Chronicles continues to reach students, educators, and communities through its culturally relevant curriculum, it becomes a tool for understanding the very systems and histories that Juneteenth represents. It creates space to not only learn about freedom as a legal status but to explore freedom as an evolving practice: of voice, expression, and self-determination.

By exploring themes such as identity, justice, resilience, and collective healing, Sankofa Chronicles provides an immersive experience that reflects the same values celebrated on Juneteenth. It ensures that today’s learners are equipped not just with knowledge, but with empathy, self-awareness, and the courage to build a better world.

A Call to Remember—and Reimagine

This Juneteenth, let us not simply look back at history but embrace it as a catalyst for transformation. Let us teach our children not just about dates and declarations, but about the hearts, hopes, and heritage that shaped them. Let us invest in tools like Sankofa Chronicles that help make history come alive—illuminating lessons of the past to inspire powerful futures.

Juneteenth is a day of remembrance and rejoicing. Through the lens of Sankofa, it is also a day of responsibility—to honor our ancestors by carrying forward their wisdom, strength, and unwavering belief in a better tomorrow.

Join the Movement

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community advocate, consider how you can bring the spirit of Juneteenth and the power of Sankofa Chronicles into your spaces. Let’s commit to truth-telling, teaching, and transforming—because freedom, like education, is a lifelong pursuit.

As we move through 2025, the Sankofa Chronicles project continues to make remarkable strides. We’ve reached significant milestones and are thrilled to share the latest exciting developments with you.

Where We Stand

Video Production Triumphs: Our creative team has wrapped up all video production, ensuring engaging and informative content is ready for distribution. These videos are a cornerstone of our Learning Management System (LMS), designed to inspire and educate.

Smooth Sailing in LMS Development: Our LMS is progressing seamlessly, with no obstacles hindering our path. It’s being populated with the completed video content and instructional materials, setting the stage for an enriched learning experience.

On the Horizon

Jackson, MS: A Launchpad for Innovation: We are thrilled to announce our pilot site has been secured in Jackson, Mississippi, with a launch set for Fall 2025. This marks a pivotal step in bringing the Sankofa Chronicles to life, where history meets the present in educational excellence.

Curriculum Integration: Our team is diligently integrating our curriculum into the LMS, ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive educational journey for all users.

Collaborative Evaluations: We are in active discussions with Spelman, Morehouse, and Jackson State University to foster future collaborations in marketing, particularly through social media platforms. These partnerships aim to expand our reach and enhance engagement.

Jackson Pilot Rollout Adjustments: The professional development timeline is being fine-tuned for a fall rollout, overcoming summer scheduling challenges. We are committed to ensuring a successful implementation.

The Sankofa Chronicles is more than a project; it’s a movement to bridge the past and the future through education. Stay tuned as we continue to make strides and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.Join us on this transformative journey as we delve deeper into the stories that shape our world and empower communities through knowledge. The Sankofa Chronicles is not just about preserving history; it’s about using it as a lens to view the complexities of the present and the possibilities of the future.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare for the full rollout, our focus remains steadfast on innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in education. We invite you to be part of this exciting adventure as we continue to explore, learn, and grow.

Together, we are building a foundation for future generations to thrive and succeed. Stay connected with us for more updates and join us in making history come alive.

We are proud to share exciting updates in the development of The Sankofa Chronicles, our multimedia curriculum designed to infuse social and emotional learning (SEL) into schools and communities across the nation.

Capturing the Spirit of Ubuntu at Morehouse College

In March, The Sankofa Chronicles reached a major milestone with the filming of a powerful Ubuntu Circle at Morehouse College. Produced by our longtime media partner, CWK Network, this gathering captured a deep exchange of stories, reflection, and dialogue grounded in the African principle of Ubuntu—“I am because we are.” This content served as a vital component of the curriculum’s multimedia experience, bringing connection and community directly into the classroom.

The Ubuntu Circle filmed at Morehouse College featured discussions on key aspects of responsible decision-making and relationship skills.

• Responsible Decision Making: Participants explored the importance of considering the consequences of their actions, both for themselves and their community. They emphasized the need for clarity of purpose and aligning decisions with one’s values. The discussion also touched on managing one’s responsibilities to maintain a positive presence in social settings. Participants highlighted that considering the emotional impact of decisions and being present in social settings are essential aspects of responsible decision-making.

• Relationship Skills: The Ubuntu Circle also delved into the importance of communication, accountability, respect, and integrity in fostering healthy relationships. The participants emphasized the importance of in-person communication for better understanding. The significance of accountability in close relationships was discussed, with one participant noting the importance of helping friends be their best selves. Participants stressed the importance of respect and integrity, and the value of being open to different perspectives in relationships.

CWK Network, the creative force behind all the multimedia content for The Sankofa Chronicles, also captured key commentary and insights from several distinguished thought leaders, including:

• Mr. Ken Palmer, Board Chair of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Collaborative, offering critical context on the project’s vision and mission.
• Dr. Nicole Taylor, Chair and Associate Professor in the Department of Education at Spelman College, speaking on SEL and youth development.
• Dr. Ebony O. Lumumba, Chair and Associate Professor of English at Jackson State University, who shared rich insights on heritage, healing, and the transformative power of storytelling. Dr. Lumumba also emphasized that part of responsible decision making is taking care of yourself so that you can care for the community.

A Transformative New Partnership with Jackson State University

We are thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership between The Sankofa Chronicles and Jackson State University (JSU), a key step in expanding our reach into the Mississippi education landscape. At the forefront of this partnership is Dr. Lumumba, whose leadership and scholarship brought invaluable insight to the project—especially in shaping the integration of Ubuntu Circles within the curriculum.

This partnership with JSU strengthened our ability to serve schools and communities with high-impact, SEL resources, and it reinforced the deep academic and community roots that power the project.

Next Steps: Sharing the Work

As momentum continued to build, sharing the work was vitally important. Our next steps included presenting The Sankofa Chronicles at principal meetings, school board presentations, and education-focused conferences to invite more school districts into this important conversation. These strategic engagements were critical for scaling the impact of the project and ensuring it reached the students and educators it’s designed to serve.

Exploring the Power of Ubuntu Circles in Education

We are proud to announce a powerful new partnership between The Sankofa Chronicles and Jackson State University (JSU). This exciting collaboration marks another significant step in our mission to provide culturally-rooted social and emotional learning (SEL) strategies for schools and communities.

At the forefront of this partnership is Ebony O. Lumumba, Ph.D., Chair and Associate Professor of English in the Department of English and Modern Languages at JSU. A visionary leader, Dr. Lumumba has brought invaluable insight and energy to The Sankofa Chronicles, particularly in our exploration and integration of Ubuntu Circles into the project.

What Are Ubuntu Circles?

Ubuntu is a Southern African philosophy often translated as “I am because we are.” It emphasizes community, compassion, interconnectedness, and shared humanity. Ubuntu Circles are a practical application of this philosophy—intentional gatherings designed to promote mutual respect, active listening, empathy, and healing.

In educational settings, Ubuntu Circles create a space where students, educators, and community members can come together to reflect, share experiences, and build stronger relationships. These circles foster emotional intelligence, reduce conflict, and support the development of more inclusive and affirming school cultures.

Dr. Lumumba’s Role and Real-World Impact

As part of JSU’s contribution to the project, Dr. Lumumba didn’t just guide our understanding of Ubuntu—she brought it to life. In a recent filming session for The Sankofa Chronicles, she led a real-life demonstration of an Ubuntu Circle with Jackson State students, showing how the practice can be implemented in schools to build belonging and emotional resilience.

Her facilitation was not only deeply impactful for those present but also a powerful example of what’s possible when theory meets practice. Through her leadership, educators and school communities can now see firsthand how Ubuntu Circles can be an integral part of transforming classrooms and school culture.

Looking Ahead

This partnership with Jackson State University and Dr. Lumumba’s leadership is a meaningful expansion of The Sankofa Chronicles’ mission. We are thrilled to continue developing and sharing SEL resources rooted in wisdom, and we believe Ubuntu Circles are a transformative tool for schools across the country.

As we continue this journey, stay tuned for new content, including video demonstrations, lesson plans, and interviews that reflect the power of community and emotional growth in education.

Together, we move forward—rooted in the past, building a better future.