The Flippen Group’s Capturing Kids Hearts (CKH) program has formed the core of EPIC’s culture since its existence.  Gateway Community Charters (GCC) is a CKH National Showcase District and all of the schools, including EPIC are CKH National Showcase Schools.  CKH utilizes the EXCEL model to build relationships, self-managing groups, and safe classrooms throughout EPIC. Groups create their own rules via a social contract and hold each other accountable using “checks” and “fouls.” CKH creates an environment that emphasizes positivity through the frequent sharing of Good Things and affirmations. To learn more about this program, please visit their website at http://www.flippengroup.com/education/ckh.html