Theory of Change

Our Model

Why kinesthetic social-emotional learning works — and how CINA delivers it at scale.

Theory of Change

A four-stage model that connects structured physical instruction to lasting community outcomes.

Stage 01

Structured Martial Arts Instruction

Trained CINA instructors deliver consistent, culturally responsive Taekwondo and sports programming inside Newark Public School settings — 44 sites, every week.

Stage 02

Physical Discipline + SEL via DEFENDER

Every martial arts class is simultaneously a DEFENDER class. Students practice the 8 DEFENDER competencies through physical movement, not just discussion.

Stage 03

Improved Self-Regulation & Confidence

Students develop the cognitive and emotional tools to manage stress, set boundaries, resolve conflict, and advocate for themselves and others.

Stage 04

Lasting Community Impact

Reduced bullying incidents, improved attendance, stronger peer relationships, and a school culture where students feel safe and supported.

"Most anti-bullying programs are classroom-based. Most martial arts programs teach technique. CINA combines both. Every martial arts class is a DEFENDER class. Students don't just learn about resilience — they practice it, physically, every session."

CASEL Framework Alignment

DEFENDER maps directly to all five CASEL social-emotional learning competencies.

CASEL Competency	DEFENDER Competencies	How It Works
Self-Awareness	Discern, Reflect & Recover	Students identify their own emotions and recognize how they respond under pressure.
Self-Management	Focus, Exit	Students practice controlling mind and body, and removing themselves from dangerous situations.
Social Awareness	Establish, Empower	Students learn to recognize others' boundaries and uplift their peers.
Relationship Skills	Notify, Defend	Students build trust with adults and learn when and how to protect themselves and others.
Responsible Decision-Making	All 8 Competencies	The full DEFENDER sequence builds a framework for ethical, thoughtful action in any situation.

Evidence Base

Research-Backed Approach

CINA's model is grounded in peer-reviewed research demonstrating the effectiveness of martial arts instruction for social-emotional development in youth. We describe DEFENDER as research-backed to accurately reflect our current stage of independent evaluation, with outcomes data being gathered through ILEF using the validated SDQ instrument.

CINA's DEFENDER curriculum will undergo independent evaluation by ILEF using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) instrument. Pre/post survey administration will begin once the full program is approved by district leadership, with results expected to inform national scaling.

Supporting Research

Lakes et al. — Taekwondo and self-regulation in youth

Turkmen — Martial arts and social-emotional development

Sinclair et al. — Physical activity and academic outcomes

Gubbels et al. — School-based physical activity interventions

Kalina — Kinesthetic learning and behavioral outcomes

Cho et al. — Anti-bullying program effectiveness

Bring DEFENDER to Your School

CINA is expanding DEFENDER through a phased rollout — from 14 elementary schools in Spring 2026 to a summer intensive at 15 feeder sites, then full integration across all Newark Public Schools afterschool sites in Fall 2026. Contact us to learn how to bring this curriculum to your students.