Roads to Success uses proven practices in Positive Youth Development and Growth Mindset in a Project-Based Learning environment. These practices culminate in the development of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) core capacities known to increase self-confidence, rates of graduation and overall future success and well-being of young participants.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) consists of developing the skills to manage one’s emotions, build positive relationships, make safe and responsible decisions for oneself, and handle challenges constructively and ethically. 

In a report released by The Wallace Foundation and The University of Chicago CCSR, researchers show why academic skills alone don’t prepare children to lead a productive, fulfilling adulthood and why social-emotional skills—sometimes referred to as ‘skills for success’—like emotion-management, social– and self-awareness, responsible decision-making, and others are critical to success in school, work, and life.

Growth Mindset

Growth Mindset is the idea that intelligence can grow and be developed through hard work, positive strategies and support from others. Individuals with a growth mindset are driven by motivation, embrace challenges, learn from criticisms and setbacks and find inspiration and lessons in others' success. By promoting growth mindset, our young people believe they can achieve their goals and will work harder to be successful. 

Project-Based Learning

Project-Based Learning engages students to learn and develop knowledge and skills over time by finding solutions to real-world challenges through research, collaboration with other students, and presentation of their work and findings along the way. As a result, students are empowered by their efforts and take ownership of their work.  

College-Going Culture

Programs with a college-going culture explore post-secondary options for all participants, not just those who show academic promise. Those exposed to college and vocational concepts at an early age understand the purpose and nature of increasingly rigorous academics and what they can access from hard work and focus. After-school career development programs expose participants to role models, introduce them to relevant concepts and terms, simulate post-secondary experiences and make connections to institutions relevant to individuals’ goals.