About the Practice
The BROS therapeutic program provides a web of supports and infuses culturally relevant experiences and pedagogy. An advisory class was designed to address the psycho-affective, social-emotional and intellectual concerns of the young men at the Eagle Academy.
The Mission of the BROS program is to help student take charge of their education and experience success with their studies. Students are empowered to take charge of their academic and personal endeavors. Furthermore, targeted enrichment activities and interventions are put in place to develop each participant academic and social growth. The program creates a value centered, character based and high expectations environment for its participants.
The BROS advisory program is infused into the participant’s academic schedule. Social worker and a lead teacher meet with students daily in a seminar style environment. Various themes and topics are covered during these sessions. Topics ranging from (time management, setting goals, conflict resolution, identity, transcripts review, standardized exams and extracurricular activities are discussed.
The BROS program was developed in the fall 2013. The advisory program takes place daily. However, various events and enrichment activities are scheduled throughout the school year.
Target Population/Total Students:
African American/Latino male, incoming 9th graders; 14 – 16 years; total students 30
Challenges:
- Programming students for advisory program during the school day.
- Consistent number of students participating in enrichment activities throughout the year.
- Engaging teachers and staff members to actively participate in the program.
- How to deal with students undesired behaviors and infractions in school. For students to translate / transfer what they have learn to their academic courses
- Developing a cohesive collective group with a large number of students in one class.
How did school overcome challenges?
A number of students had conflicts with their schedule during the fall term. For the spring Term, priority was giving to ensure students were program for the advisory class.
Social Worker and Teacher partnered to run the daily advisory class. 2x per semester Social Worker and Teacher meets with students individually to discuss progress in school and to develop their academic goals.
An intern also works with the group to trouble shoot and triage any issues or problems that students maybe experiencing.
Frequent communications with teachers and staff about students progress in school and updates with the BROS.
How did you evaluate that this practice was effective?
Students are giving pre and post assessment of their thoughts and feelings about the program.
Periodic review of students transcripts and credits that they have accumulated for the year.
Attendance reports and student course passing for the term.
How will you continue to sustain this practice?
• At the end of the school year, the planning team will meet and discuss the overall impact of the BROS program on the school community.
• Administration has pledge to continue to support of mission and vision of the BROS program.
• We will continue to offer student various opportunities to be exposed and learn about college and career opportunities.
• Students will continue to be programmed for tutoring after school to prepare students to meet college readiness requirements.