Shri and Segue Institute for Learning Advance SEL Pilot Program

Shri's first-of-its-kind social-emotional learning (SEL) pilot program with the Segue Institute for Learning is progressing with great success. Following a strong first weekend of training, the program will continue on March 14-16, with an additional make-up session on April 5 due to inclement weather.

The initiative is designed to integrate SEL directly into the school day at Segue, providing educators with trauma-informed tools that support students’ well-being, focus, and emotional resilience. 21 trainees—including three from Segue—are participating in the program, gaining hands-on experience in bringing Shri’s proven outreach methodology into their classrooms.

“This collaboration reflects Segue’s deep commitment to social-emotional learning and student well-being,” said Angelo Garcia, M.ED., Founder and Executive Director of Segue Institute for Learning. “Our staff, including our PE teacher, social worker, and behavior specialist, are engaged in this training because we recognize the importance of these tools in supporting our students both academically and emotionally.”

Weekend One: Practical Training for Immediate Use

During the first weekend, participants covered essential techniques for working with students of all abilities through the Shri Adaptive Project and gained insight into:

• The Shri methodology, including rhythm-building and trauma-informed instruction.
• The importance of relationship-building in outreach.
• Creating effective transitions with movement and language.
• Incorporating Shri’s core values (aligned with Segue) into storytelling and life skills education.
• Direct Demos of mindfulness activities that Segue staff can implement immediately, including:
  • 10-minute mindful movement breaks for focus and stress relief.
  • Full 50-60 minute class elements for deeper SEL integration.

Weekend Two & Ongoing Support

The upcoming March 14-16 training will reinforce these concepts while expanding SEL strategies. To ensure long-term success, Segue staff will receive:

• A 50+ page Shri School Project Affiliate Curriculum for use on their own schedule.
• Access to Shri’s software to schedule and track SEL progress.
• Ongoing mentorship from Alison Bologna and senior Shri teachers during implementation.

Comprehensive Training with Real-World Application

This 80-hour training program goes beyond classroom instruction—trainees are also required to attend and assist in Shri’s current community outreach classes to gain hands-on experience with diverse populations. By working directly with students in schools, shelters, hospitals, and social service agencies, trainees gain best practices in making SEL and mindfulness accessible to all.

Open to All Educators

While this pilot program is being implemented with Segue, all educators are welcome to participate in the annual training and learn how to integrate SEL practices into their schools. Shri’s free “Yoga for Educators” class is offered to all teachers and administrators statewide every Tuesday at 4:30 pm, encouraging collaboration and continued professional development.

A Model for Future School-Based SEL Programs

Since its founding in 2010 by award-winning journalist and E-RYT yoga teacher Alison Bologna, Shri (Studio & Service Corps) has developed a reputation for making yoga and mindfulness practices accessible in schools, shelters, hospitals, and social service agencies. Shri now serves more than 8,500 students, and the Segue pilot program represents a significant step toward integrating SEL into Rhode Island schools in a sustainable and impactful way.

“This program is built on real-world experience, ensuring that educators at Segue have tools they can use to support their students immediately and effectively,” said Alison Bologna, Shri Founder. “We’re honored to work alongside Segue’s dedicated staff in shaping this pilot program, and I look forward to seeing its impact in the classroom.”

For more information, or to schedule an interview with Alison Bologna or Angelo Garcia, please contact:

📧 Email: alison@shriyoga.org

🌐 Website: shriyoga.org

📍 Location: 390 Pine Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860

About Shri

Shri is a mission-driven organization committed to improving community health through accessible and inclusive yoga-based outreach programs. Through trauma-informed SEL initiatives, Shri supports thousands of students across schools, shelters, hospitals, and social service agencies, ensuring wellness is available to all.

About Segue Institute for Learning

Segue Institute for Learning is a public charter school in Central Falls, Rhode Island, dedicated to providing a rigorous, student-centered education that fosters academic achievement, social-emotional growth, and community engagement. With a commitment to equity and innovation, Segue empowers students to become lifelong learners and active participants in their communities. Through partnerships like the SEL pilot program with Shri Yoga, Segue continues to integrate forward-thinking initiatives that support the whole student—academically, socially, and emotionally.