OWL Frequently Asked Questions
How is OWL different each year? If my child’s already taken it, aren’t they done?
Because OWL spans six different age groups (it really is Our WHOLE Lives!) different information is available for different ages. The adult and late high school curriculum doesn’t spend much time on puberty. The younger ages don’t focus on complex social issues. Each age level is different, and covers different material. The common thread between OWL classes is the four key themes: self-worth, responsibility, sexual health and justice.
In addition, because class dynamics and group cohesion play such a huge role, each time your child takes OWL, it’s a different experience just because of the others in the room!
Why do OWLs A and B use the same curriculum?
It has to do with how the curriculum is written. It covers three grade levels at a time, but recommends no more than two grade levels together in a class. Although the curriculum itself is age-appropriate for 7th through 9th graders, there is a huge difference between a 12 year old and a 15 year old! To make students more comfortable, we group them with the people closest to them in age.
This means that a student taking OWL now in 7th grade could have the same material again in 9th grade – and that’s ok! Those two years of life-experience, plus a new dynamic of peers in the class will make it a totally new and fresh experience.
Does OWL promote teen sex?
No. But it doesn’t promote abstinence only, either. OWL is more about giving students ALL the information available so they can see the whole picture. That way, if your child ever finds themselves in a compromising situation, they can make the choice that’s right for them, and can communicate that choice responsibly to their partner.
We’re so busy! Can we just drop-in when we have free time?
Unfortunately, no. OWL is a commitment. We understand that kids are busy today, which is why we chose a time that had the least amount of conflict with other potential activities. But when a student comes sporadically to class, it hurts the entire group and that group’s sense of cohesion (which is a vital and crucial part of OWL!). Plus, your child would be missing out on important information that builds on itself.
If you have questions or concerns about committing to OWL, please talk to Abeth or one of the other facilitators to see if we can help.
OWL sounds great! I don’t have a child in the program, but how can I help?
There are many ways to help out with our OWL program. We’re always looking for volunteers to help parents coordinate dinner. And donations to our program are always appreciated and greatly valued!
If you really feel passionately about OWL, you may want to get trained as a facilitator and teach future classes! Shadow Rock will be hosting such a training this January – look for more information later this fall!