7 Mindsets, a leading provider of online social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum and professional development for K–12 schools and districts, has announced a strategic partnership with middle-market private equity firm Gauge Capital. Gauge Capital’s growth capital and recapitalization will support 7 Mindsets’ rapid expansion and accelerate the company’s plans to broaden its SEL offerings and educator resources. This investment is intended to help scale programs that empower students and teachers, foster lasting cultural change in schools, and produce positive outcomes for student behavior, achievement, and attendance.
Established in 2016, 7 Mindsets delivers a comprehensive, web-based SEL curriculum paired with professional development designed for classroom implementation. The mindsets-based curriculum includes more than 370 distinct lessons across grade levels and is available in both English and Spanish. In addition to student-facing lessons, the program incorporates a research-backed methodology and supplemental resources to strengthen teacher-student relationships and to help educators reconnect with one another. These tools are created to be practical, classroom-ready, and aligned with the needs of today’s schools.
“Our mission has always been to help students and educators dream bigger, pursue their passions, build meaningful relationships, and thrive both in and out of school,” said Scott Shickler, Co-Founder and CEO of 7 Mindsets. “Gauge Capital shares our conviction that mindsets matter and shape the quality of life. With Gauge’s experience and support, we will expand our reach and continue to empower millions of students and educators to live their best lives.”
Tom McKelvey, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Gauge Capital, commented, “Extensive research shows a direct and statistically significant impact from the 7 Mindsets approach on the social-emotional wellbeing of students, teachers, and administrators. 7 Mindsets has earned a reputation for excellence with its transformational SEL platform. We are excited to partner with the team and help scale mindsets-based social-emotional learning that builds optimism and resilience across school communities.”
Program impact and benefits
Social-emotional learning programs like those developed by 7 Mindsets aim to create safe, inclusive school climates where students learn skills such as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship-building, and responsible decision-making. When implemented with fidelity, SEL curricula can support improved classroom behavior, stronger attendance, and higher student engagement. 7 Mindsets combines evidence-informed lesson design with professional development that helps educators apply SEL concepts in daily instruction and school culture initiatives.
Teachers receive practical strategies and ready-to-use lesson plans that are designed to integrate with existing schedules and standards. For administrators, the platform offers tools and guidance to measure progress, sustain initiatives, and promote a cohesive, positive culture. The bilingual nature of the curriculum expands access for diverse student populations and supports inclusive practice across districts.
About Gauge Capital
Gauge Capital is a middle-market private equity firm based in Southlake, Texas, that focuses on investing in healthcare, technology, business services, government and industrial services, and food and consumer sectors. The firm manages approximately $2.5 billion in capital and has been recognized for its work with founders and middle-market companies. Inc. Magazine named Gauge one of the top private equity firms for founders in 2020 and 2021, and the firm was included among the Top 50 PE Firms in the Middle Market by Grady Campbell. For additional information, contact Andrew Peix, Managing Director of Business Development, at [email protected].
About 7 Mindsets
Since 2016, 7 Mindsets has delivered an award-winning, easy-to-implement SEL program for PreK–12 schools and districts. The research-based curriculum and professional development model help schools create and sustain positive cultures rooted in healthy relationships and a strengths-based approach to learning. 7 Mindsets provides practical, scalable solutions that support educators and students, with content available in multiple languages and tailored to the needs of diverse communities. For information about programs, implementation, and professional learning, visit the 7 Mindsets website or follow the organization on social media under the handle @7Mindsets.