The aim of this curriculum is to nurture and support male-identifying students in developing a healthy resistance to societal messages about masculinity which compromise their integrity, inhibit the development of close relationships and social support systems, and limit their opportunities inside and outside of the classroom.

As documented by multitudinous researchers, NGOs, and institutions such as the Global Boyhood Initiative in their State of American Boys report, there is there is a pressing and vital need for adults to nurture boys' relational and emotional skills. It's crucial to foster their ability to create and sustain a network of robust, caring relationships, which are essential for raising a more interconnected, emotionally vibrant, and gender-equal generation.

By emphasizing participatory community-oriented leadership experiences, this curriculum seeks to influence students' perspectives and behaviors, empowering them to recognize and embrace their full humanity. It encourages students to define success by their sense of wholeness, connection, and value. 

Johnny Cole is an OHS alumnus from the class of 2015 and former student of David Reese's. He founded the men's work organization Hey Brother Co. in 2023 and provides healthy masculinity education, workshops, men's retreats, and more to men across the world. David Reese is an engaged, experienced educator and a key foundation of the Oberlin High School community.

You can read more about why healthy male role models are more essential than ever in the Global Boyhood Initiative's State of American Boys report.

See what two members of the 2023 -2024 cohort had to say about the program here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UqDVCZUIgmDP_ImEGAky4-jtKvczSTe-/view?usp=sharing

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1taZZ81pofxXqIsCC3qDQAqF8zQikVk8g/view?usp=drive_link

The "Million Mask Movement Exercise": An immersive experience encouraging vulnerability and fostering connections among peers.

Authentic Conversations: Creating a safe space for open, honest dialogue, where boys can explore and share their experiences without fear of judgment.

Innovative SEL Activities: Leveraging interactive and creative exercises to promote self-awareness, empathy, and positive behavioral patterns.

Deconstructing the 'Man Box': Delving into societal constructs of masculinity to challenge harmful stereotypes and cultivate healthier expressions of identity.

Hey Brother Co. Program Framework: Guiding students through a structured journey from disengagement to empowered leadership, tailored to meet the unique needs of young men.

Mindfulness Practices: Introducing mindfulness techniques such as group yoga and guided meditation to enhance emotional regulation and well-being.

Structured Play: Utilizing organized recreational activities to foster teamwork, communication skills, and resilience.

By integrating these diverse approaches, the program aims to not only equip boys with essential social and emotional skills but also to instill a sense of purpose, agency, and community responsibility. Through this holistic approach, we envision a cohort of young men emerging as compassionate, resilient leaders, poised to positively influence both their own lives and the broader school community.