“OWL”

Our Whole Lives

Grade Appropriate Courses in Sexuality Education

WHAT Is "Our Whole Lives"?

Our Whole Lives (OWL) is a series of sexuality education curricula for five age groups: grades K-l,
4-6, 7-9, 10-12 and adults. The program provides accurate information and Unitarian Universalist values for children, youth, adults, and families.

OWL is based on the philosophy of comprehensive sexuality education, which helps participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, OWL provides not only facts but also helps participants clarify their values, build skills and understand the spiritual, emotional, social, and political aspects of sexuality as well.

OWL, led by a male/female leadership team, uses a variety of media and interactions within a confidential group setting to respond to the expressed concerns of the participants.

WHO ARE THE FACILITATORS?

There will be two co-facilitators for this course. Each facilitator has attended intensive training provided by the Unitarian Universalist Association.

WHO SPONSORS OWL?

This course is sponsored by the Long Island Area Council (LIAC) of Unitarian Universalist Societies, supported by dues from the 12 UU societies on Long Island.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR OWL?

Currently there are 2 programs planned for this year:

Any youth in grades 7-9 who is associated with a Long Island UU society is eligible.

Any youth in grades 9-12 who is associated with a Long Island UU society is eligible.

Please consider your child's maturity level when considering OWL due to the sensitive nature of the material.

WHEN IS THE COURSE?

Grades 7-9:

The OWL program will involve 5 four-hour meetings at local Long Island congregations on the following tentative dates: Dec. 2, 9, Jan. 6, 13, 27, Feb. 3. Locations and exact schedules will be discussed at the Parent Meeting.

There will be a mandatory parent meeting on Sunday, November 18, at 3:00 pm at the Garden City Congregation (if available).

Grades 9-12:

The OWL program will involve 5 four-hour meetings at local Long Island congregations on the following tentative dates: March 2, 9, 16, April 6, 13. Locations and exact schedules will be discussed at the Parent Meeting.

There will be a mandatory parent meeting on Sunday, February 24, at 3:00 pm at the Garden City Congregation (if available).

At this time, an overview of the curriculum will be presented and course material will be available for perusal. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and express concerns. The parental role as primary sexuality educators is honored, and your understanding and support is vital. Parents/guardians will be asked to sign a permission form allowing their child to attend.

WHAT ARE THE OBLIGATIONS?

Those who choose to take OWL are making some simple commitments:

• At least one parent or guardian will attend the parent orientation to better understand the course and sign the appropriate consent forms.

• The participant will attend all of the scheduled sessions and be on time.

• The participants and parents will abide by the rules of the group concerning confidentiality and respect during the duration of the sessions, while respecting the confidentiality of the participants.

• Total fee for the course is $125. Please speak with your local religious educator if this poses a financial hardship.

HOW DOES ONE REGISTER?

See details on the age appropriate form:

OWL brochure and application (grades 7-9)

OWL brochure and application (grades 9-12)

Programs for other age groups are currently not scheduled.