African American Male “Growing Into Manhood” Curriculum

The 180 Degrees Program Growing Into Manhood curriculum is a social-emotional learning curriculum for African American young men ages 11 – 17. Designed for African American men by a team of African American leaders, the curriculum provides both mentoring and life skill development. The curriculum may be used within an academic or non-academic setting and promotes both academic and life skill learning among students. The Growing Into Manhood curriculum supports the educational and life skill goals of all African American males.

The textbook, filled with African American culture and history, is engaging and captivating. Curriculum content is aligned with Dr. Janice Hale’s strategies from her work Learning While Black: Creating Educational Excellence for African American Children.

Highlights of curriculum content include:

  • Course designed to be delivered by African American teachers/facilitators
  • Each chapter features Adinkra Symbols reflecting West African icons and culture
  • Clear skill-based learning objectives
  • Content designed to emphasize conversational learning among students
  • Vivid color and art involving positive African American images and themes
  • Real life scenarios and life lessons
  • Clear explanation of key concepts and curriculum content
  • Lessons in Black history, heritage, and culture
  • Multiple opportunities for local service learning projects
  • Designed to produce measureable change in each participant

To view excerpts from the student handbook, click on the links below:

 

“Before this class I was struggling tremendously in and outside of school. I felt like I was on my way to nothing in life and I didn’t picture myself graduating high school.” “During this class I have figured myself out. Now I know what I want to do in life. Honestly, this class saved my high school experience and now I am determined to graduate high school and go to college.”— Arturo