— from Sandi Burt —
OWL offers honest, accurate information about sexuality that can change lives. It dismantles stereotypes and assumptions, builds self-acceptance and self-esteem, fosters healthy relationships, improves decision making, and has the potential to save lives. The OWL program offers a safe environment for a small group of youth to deeply explore their general and sexual values, and practice communication that reinforces their personal values. OWL has been offered to Orcas 7-9th graders three times now, and OWL graduates have become peer leaders, supporting informed, healthy sexual decision making in their youth community.
Thanks to generous funding and collaboration from OICF, the Orcas Unitarian Universalist Organization, Emmanual Episcopal Parrish and many Island organizations and businesses, the program is being piloted for the first time for 10th-12th graders.
Registration forms are available in the Orcas High School, OASIS, and Christian School Offices, and should be returned to Sandi Burt in the Elementary School Office. Applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Five female- and five male-identified students will be included.
Lead teachers will be Sandi Burt, MSW, and RJ Myers, with support from Suzanne Olson, Serena Burman & Berto Gandera, as well as many community guest speakers. Registration forms can be picked up at the Orcas Island High School Office and from Julie Pinardi. Applications should be returned to Sandi Burt in the Elementary School Office.
The schedule for classes is:
Sunday nights, 7-9pm:
January 22
February 12
Camp Orkila Overnight retreats: Saturday 1pm – Sunday noon
Saturday January 28 – Sunday January
Saturday March 3 – Sunday March 4
A Parent Orientation will be offered prior to classes beginning. Contact Sandi Burt with questions: 376-7119
UPDATE: DATE CHANGE: Because January 23rd is finals week, our original start date of January 22 has been eliminated. The program will begin with the January 28 retreat.
