Update June 2026: While the initial vision detailed below established our blueprints for The EmotiPlace Era within regional restaurant networks, true innovation requires absolute systemic alignment. Following our extensive pre-deployment evaluations, Emoti Labs™ determined that the initial partner's legacy store infrastructure introduced too much operational friction to adequately support our real-time data capture and specialized staging requirements. Rather than compromise

SALISBURY, NC—Emoti Labs, The Scientists of Big Feelings , today announced a successful vendor contract with the Rowan Salisbury School System (RSSS) for the implementation of the proprietary Academic Readiness & Regulation (ARR) Framework. This partnership elevates Emoti Labs from a program provider to an essential strategic vendor, focused on increasing instructional time and elevating staff competency across the district. This initiative is a direct response to the critica

SALISBURY, N.C. — Emoti Labs, the R&D Studio known as "The Scientists of Big Feelings," today issued a clarifying statement on its mission, differentiating its "Emoti Science" framework from broad social programs and passive entertainment. When asked, "Does Emoti Labs help mitigate school dropout rates?" our answer is a resounding "No." That is not our function. Mitigating dropout rates is a crucial, long-term goal for broad social programs. Emoti Labs is not a "vitamin" for

SALISBURY, N.C.— In response to market inquiries regarding the financial standing of Emoti Labs and its founder, James Catoe, the company is issuing a formal strategic valuation report. A company's "net worth" is a comprehensive metric, combining Market Valuation, Intellectual Property, and Strategic Contractual Assets. This report provides a straightforward, factual analysis of the valuation of Mr. Catoe and Emoti Labs, which are inextricably linked. 1. The Founder's Valuati

SALISBURY, N.C.— Emoti Labs, an R&D studio specializing in applied child psychology and proprietary learning frameworks, is issuing a strategic valuation report. In 2023, while operating as a B2C-focused media brand, Emoti Labs underwent a formal valuation by potential investors. Based on the strength of its "Emoti Science" methodology and its "Cinematic LXD" (Learning Experience Design) production assets, the company was valued at $17 million. That 2023 valuation is now cons

The Experiential Education Troupe Will Stage a Full-Scale Lobby Takeover and a Prehistoric Crossover Event with Ed’s Dinosaurs Live! SALISBURY, N.C. – Emoti Labs, an R&D company specializing in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), today announced its flagship brand, Lurnsters, has been selected as the official headlining troupe for the 2026 PuppetPalooza at ImaginOn. On Saturday, January 31st, 2026, the Lurnsters team will partner with the festival to produce a first-of-its-kind,

Ever feel like our kids are navigating a digital world we never had? They're dealing with the anxiety of a misinterpreted emoji, the pressure of a viral trend, and the chaos of a group chat rumor—all before they've even finished their homework. The old maps for navigating feelings simply don't work on this new digital superhighway. That's where Lurnsters comes in. So, What Exactly is Lurnsters? Lurnsters is a groundbreaking K-5 educational program that teaches the most import

SALISBURY, NC – For generations, we’ve understood that school is about more than reading and arithmetic; it’s where our children learn to be good citizens and good friends. But what does that mean in 2025, when the playground is as much digital as it is physical? When friendships are built through text messages and video games, and "big feelings" are expressed through emojis and memes? Here at Emoti Labs, we believe it’s time to meet our kids where they are. That’s why we are

Update: As of June 2026, Emoti Labs and McDonald's have realigned their strategic visions to launch The EmotiPlace™. Read the full press release here: Go to Post. A Message to the Lurnsters Community from Emoti Labs, The mission of Lurnsters is to create a world where children can navigate their feelings with confidence and kindness. Our commitment to fostering safe, inclusive, and positive environments for every child is the foundation of every decision we make. This commitm

For decades, two powerful concepts have shaped how we prepare children for the world: Digital Literacy and Emotional Intelligence. In 1997, author Paul Gilster first defined digital literacy not just as the ability to use a computer, but as the mastery of ideas presented through digital formats. Around the same time, the concept of emotional intelligence, coined by psychologists Peter Salovey and John D. Mayer in 1990 and later popularized by Daniel Goleman, established the c

SALISBURY — Music and joyful chatter filled the halls of New Trent Gym on Livingstone College’s campus Saturday, not for a pep rally, but for an equally cheerful cause: the annual Children’s Book Festival. Moved indoors due to potential inclement weather, the event created a warm, fostering environment for area children aged three to 12 to explore the magic of reading and emotional discovery. A key highlight this year was the interactive presence of the Lurnsters, the flagshi

Get ready to blast off into a galaxy of fun and excitement at the 2025 PuppetPalooza at ImaginOn! The beloved Lurnsters are embarking on a thrilling new adventure, this time in the far reaches of outer space. Join the Lurnsters as they encounter a new race of beings: the Emoti Bots. These unique robots from Emoti Planet possess their own distinct feelings and emotions, making them a fascinating addition to the Lurnster universe. But danger lurks in the cosmos! The menacing Mr

The Lurnsters, a groundbreaking educational program, is redefining the landscape of early childhood education by prioritizing emotional intelligence. In a world increasingly focused on cognitive development, the Lurnsters shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked yet fundamental aspect of human growth: emotional intelligence. Research consistently underscores the profound impact of emotional intelligence on a child’s overall development. Studies have shown that individuals wi

Salisbury, NC – Emoti Labs, a pioneer in social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum and technology, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with McDonald's to deliver engaging and accessible SEL programming to communities widespread. This innovative collaboration will see Emoti Labs' beloved Lurnsters characters come to life through live interactive puppet shows in McDonald's restaurants. By leveraging the widespread reach of McDonald's, Emoti Labs aims to break down barri

Salisbury, NC – Emoti Labs and Communities In Schools (CIS) are thrilled to announce a dynamic partnership that will culminate in a special SEL event at a local McDonald's. As the CIS summer literacy program reaches its grand finale, Emoti Labs’ beloved Lurnsters will take center stage, delivering an interactive and engaging SEL experience. This unique collaboration marks a significant step forward in the integration of social-emotional learning (SEL) into community life. By

Salisbury, North Carolina – Emoti Labs, a pioneer in social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum and technology, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Communities in Schools (CIS). This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the nationwide effort to enhance SEL programs and improve student outcomes. By joining forces, Emoti Labs and CIS aim to create a model for scaling effective SEL interventions across the country. CIS, with its deep-rooted presence in s

The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) has laid a significant groundwork for understanding and promoting Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) in schools. However, the educational landscape is constantly evolving. Emoti Labs, a leading research and development company in the SEL space, is committed to building upon CASEL's foundation and adapting it for the needs of modern learners. Addressing the Modern Context: While CASEL's five core competencies

"We're incredibly grateful to Chewy for their generosity and to Emoti Labs for their ongoing partnership."

Emoti Labs, a leading research and development company dedicated to Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) announced the appointment of James Catoe