About Us

We see social emotional learning differently.

Our mission is to support schools and districts to create, promote and sustain school communities that thrive through holistic, responsive and comprehensive school improvement structures focused on social-emotional learning, trauma-responsiveness, wellness and equity.

We want to meet you where you are on your school wellness journey and work alongside you as you implement strategies and new learning. We'll support you every step of the way on your journey to trauma-responsiveness and a safe, healthy, supportive school. Our approach looks beyond social-emotional learning as isolated skills and subject matter and explores social-emotional learning as the backbone and foundation of our schools. This tiered and holistic perspective allows you to transform your school community.

Schools with Heart, LLC is located in Genoa, Illinois.

Sara Oakland Bates acts as Chief Education Officer for Schools with Heart, LLC. Sara is an experienced special education teacher and school leader and has served in special education, social-emotional learning and school mental health leadership roles. In addition to holding a teaching and school administrative license, Sara is also a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience as a school-based therapist. Sara is passionate about creating systems of care that provide school communities with the ability to maintain wellness and resiliency. Sara enjoys working with educators and school leaders through the school improvement process, as well as the coaching cycle.