OWL Philosophy
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.
This course is sponsored by the Long Island Area Council (LIAC) of Unitarian Universalist Congregations, supported by dues from the 11 UU societies on Long Island.
Goals for OWL - Our Whole Lives
Providing accurate information and Unitarian Universalist values for children, youth, adults, and families with sexuality education curricula for grades: K-l, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12 and adults.
WHAT ARE THE OBLIGATIONS?
Those who choose to take OWL are making some simple commitments:
- At least one parent/guardian will attend the orientation meeting to better understand the course
- 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
The leaders will be available to discuss the course during the duration of the sessions, while respecting the confidentiality of the participants.
How to register?
To register complete & submit the registration form & mail with $20 check deposit.
The balance fee for the course of $100 is due at the first session.
Make checks payable to LIAC, and put OWL in the memo line.
Dates
Jr. High OWL Program
Classes will meet Sundays from 1:30-6 pm (4.5 hours):
There will be a mandatory parent / guardian meeting for Junior High program (details provided with registration).
At this time, an overview of the curriculum will be presented and course material will be available for perusal. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and express concerns.
*meetings at local Long Island congregations*
Leadership of OWL
Responsibilities:
- To teach the OWL course to youth registered in the program
- Arrange the scheduling, promotion and teaching of the course.
- Make an Annual Report to the LIAC Board.
Requirements for Leadership:
- The leaders must have received the OWL training given by UUA OWL trainers (registration fee paid by LIAC).
- They need to have an understanding and appreciation of youth.
- Leaders need to be members in good standing of a LIAC congregation.
- Some educational training or background is preferred.
- Good communication skills, self-awareness and understanding of others, sensitivity, problem-solving and decision-making skills, and a positive attitude are all important attributes.
- It is important that leaders have a social network outside their religious education responsibility in which to meet their own needs for friendship, affirmation and self-esteem
- Leaders need to be willing and able to seek assistance from colleagues and religious professionals when they become aware of a situation requiring expert help or intervention.
- Driver’s license is required.
- Sign the Code of Ethics statement and follow procedures according to the Safe Congregation material published/recommended by the UUA.
- Successfully pass a background check.
- OWL leaders will be appointed and approved by the LIAC Board in consultation with the OWL program leader/liaison.
Time commitments:
- The OWL training time of a weekend (Friday 7 pm to Sunday at 3:30 pm) is required.
- The program includes one mandatory parent orientation of two hours in length
- for Jr. High OWL there will be approximately 12 sessions (as the curriculum is 25 units)
- Two or more hours of preparation time (estimated) may be necessary for each session taught.
There are teams of two facilitators for the course.
The co-leaders have completed intensive training for the OWL curricula provided by the UU Metro District.
Each is a member of a Unitarian Universalist congregation.
For more info contact:
Sharon Pataky, COA Coordinator