Xinachtli in Schools
Xinachtli Rites of Passage & Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Alignment
The Xinachtli Rites of Passage Curriculum is a culturally-rooted, gender-responsive program designed to support the holistic development of youth through an Indigenous, healing-centered framework. It aligns with Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) standards adopted by school districts by fostering self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making—core competencies identified by CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning).
Key Areas of Alignment:
Self-Awareness
Xinachtli guides youth in developing a strong sense of identity, cultural pride, and emotional literacy through storytelling, reflection, and ceremony.
Aligns with SEL objectives of identifying emotions, recognizing strengths, and fostering self-confidence.
Self-Management
The curriculum incorporates mindfulness, breathing techniques, and traditional healing practices to regulate emotions and manage stress.
Aligns with SEL competencies related to impulse control, stress management, and goal-setting.
Social Awareness
Xinachtli fosters empathy and perspective-taking by encouraging youth to learn from ancestral teachings, community elders, and each other.
Aligns with SEL standards for appreciating diversity, practicing cultural humility, and demonstrating compassion.
Relationship Skills
Through collective dialogue within the Xinachtli circles, youth develop communication skills, conflict resolution strategies, and collaborative relationships.
Aligns with SEL requirements for active listening, cooperation, and healthy relationship-building.
Responsible Decision-Making
Xinachtli provides a values-based framework for making choices that honor personal, community, and environmental well-being.
Aligns with SEL expectations for ethical reasoning, evaluating consequences, and making positive contributions.
Why Xinachtli in Schools?
Culturally Sustaining: Offers a strengths-based approach that affirms the identities of Indigenous, Latinx, and BIPOC youth.
Trauma-Informed & Healing-Centered: Supports mental health and emotional resilience in ways that resonate with diverse student experiences.
Community-Based & Intergenerational: Engages families, elders, and community leaders in student learning and growth.
By integrating the Xinachtli Rites of Passage Curriculum into school-based SEL initiatives, districts can create more inclusive, healing-centered, and culturally responsive learning environments that empower students to thrive.
