Yonkers Public Schools has launched a new curriculum to support students in My Brother’s Keeper Yonkers (MBK Yonkers), a national initiative established by President Obama to address opportunity gaps faced by young men of color. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive support system for students of color by fostering growth, resilience, and a positive school climate.
“This curriculum represents our district’s commitment to nurturing every student’s potential and fostering a supportive environment that uplifts and empowers young men of color,” said Superintendent Aníbal Soler, Jr. “By focusing on their strengths and equipping our educators with the tools to build meaningful relationships, we are laying the foundation for our students’ academic and personal success. This is not just about curriculum; it’s about inspiring growth and resilience in our future leaders.”
The curriculum was introduced in response to requests from educators who wanted more support in their MBK Yonkers programs, which are dedicated to improving educational outcomes for boys and young men of color. They were seeking a framework that provided themes, activities, and tasks to engage students in meaningful discussions. In partnership with the One Circle Foundation, the curriculum includes a series of activities that focus on social and emotional themes, such as understanding emotions, managing relationships, and cultivating self-worth. It uses a strength-based approach that emphasizes students’ strengths over their deficits.
Empowering Chapter Leaders to Foster Student Success
MBK Yonkers chapter leaders, including educators, counselors, and other school staff, have received and will continue to receive training in One Circle Foundation’s strength-based approach. This training equips chapter leaders with the tools they need to guide students through multiple core activities, which cover topics like emotional awareness, decision-making, and building healthy relationships. These activities are designed to support students’ academic and personal growth. \
“We had a lot of discussions about how we often focus on students’ deficits,” said Dr. Jason Baez, MBK Yonkers’ Executive Director. “But with this approach, we’re focusing on their strengths instead. A water half full approach.”
The curriculum is designed to align with several of the MBK Alliance’s six key milestones, particularly Milestone Three, which focuses on graduating from high school, and Milestone Six, which aims to keep students safe from violent crime. By fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance in schools, and creating safe spaces, the curriculum contributes to a supportive environment that helps students stay engaged and successful.
Positive Early Feedback and Commitment to Ongoing Impact
Educators and administrators involved in the initial training sessions have provided positive feedback. One participant shared, “In over 20 years, this is the best professional development I have ever attended. I wish more administrators could learn from them.” This feedback reflects the enthusiasm and renewed commitment to the MBK Alliance’s mission across the district. While the curriculum and resources are essential, relationship-building remains at the heart of the MBK initiative. “At the end of the day, if you’re not building authentic relationships with people, this is not going to work. It all comes down to building strong relationships with students,” Baez explained.
As one of only four cities nationally recognized as an MBK Model Community by the Obama Foundation, Yonkers Public Schools chapter leaders will share stories, student work, helping to ensure the program’s long-term success.
