CCBS Designated Gurian Institute Model School

CCBS had the distinct honor of hosting best-selling author, family counselor and researcher Michael Gurian at its Fall Family Seminar. In addition to a day-long training for families and community guests, he presented Cherokee Creek Boys School with the designation of "Gurian Institute Model School."

Founded in 1996, the Gurian Institute has trained over 60,000 teachers and in more than 2,500 school districts. The designation of a Gurian Institute Model School "illustrates Cherokee Creek's commitment to using brain science and nature-based research to create an optimal learning environment for boys," Founder Beth Black commented. "By focusing on boys' needs and providing the single gender education classroom to meet those needs, we became the first therapeutic-setting school to earn the Model School designation. It validates what we do here and why it works."

In his presentation, Michael commended Cherokee Creek for creating a strong "boy friendly" curriculum and classroom environment that provides for the unique needs for boys. "Thank goodness Cherokee Creek Boys School exists," said Gurian. "There are so many boys who need an environment like this�.where boys can move around, have small classes, relevant content and the spirit of competition." He also stated, "Going outdoors is really big�people don't realize when boys are sitting I their seats all day that a part of their souls isn't developing�actually, a part of their success! Any boy who is at risk or having problems can find a lot of healing in nature."

He also gave kudos for our program beyond the classroom saying, "Your strong focus on male mentoring, character development, rites of passage activities and community service are so important in helping boys find their purpose."

Gurian is the author of over 25 books in 21 languages including Boys and Girls Learn Differently, The Wonder of Boys", "The Purpose of Boys, " "The Minds of Boys," and HOW DO I HELP HIM? A Practitioner's Guide To Working With Boys and Men in Therapeutic Settings. He is a recognized leader in the gender theory research and a pioneer, bringing neuro-biology and brain research into homes, schools and public policy.

Cherokee Creek Boys School's mission is to "Challenge boys and their families to discover what is real and true about themselves and the world around them." At CCBS, the entire staff believes in the healing power of nature, that engaging the whole family is essential to the therapeutic process and in creating a learning and living environment where the gifts of boys are celebrated.

Cherokee Creek Boys School is a therapeutic boarding school for middle school for boys, ages 11-15, located in South Carolina.