Open Circle is a comprehensive, grade-differentiated social and emotional learning program for grades K-5 children, their teachers, administrators, other school staff, parents and other caregivers.

Our mission is to work with school communities to help children become ethical people, contributing citizens and successful learners. By helping schools implement Open Circle, we foster the development of relationships that support safe, caring and respectful learning communities of children and adults.

Recognized as a leader in addressing the need for social and emotional learning in schools, Open Circle is listed in the U.S. Department of Education's Expert Panel Guidebook of Exemplary and Promising Safe, Disciplined, and Drug-Free Schools Programs and has been designated as a “Select” program by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning.

Since its inception in 1987, Open Circle has reached nearly half a million children and trained over 10,000 educators. Open Circle is currently used in 262 schools across 98 urban and suburban communities across the Northeast. Open Circle is a program of the Wellesley Centers for Women at Wellesley College.

Still wondering why your school should implement Open Circle? Read on.

Core Program

Open Circle Coach Training