After School Programs

Bruce Street School for the Deaf

Best Men Program

Best Men is a youth development program with a character-building curriculum for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade boys that challenges them to abstain from violence, premarital sex, and drug and alcohol use. Components of the program include curriculum meetings, fitness sessions, mentoring, community service projects, cultural events, and role-model speakers. Topics such as Respect, Decision-Making, Relationships, Friendship, Drug

and Alcohol Abuse, AIDS and STD's and Physical Fitness and Nutrition are discussed, with a focus on developing cognitive skills that help students in making informed, sound decisions.

Through a cohesive peer support group, Best Men helps students develop self-discipline and respect for others. Each member is paired with an adult Mentor within the school. The goal is to provide the boys an adult male Mentor who will help them develop their goals, follow-up on their academic standing, and reinforce the principles taught in the curriculum sessions.

Also, role-model speakers are invited to talk to the boys and give them a vision of what is possible for their future through the positive life experiences of another successful man.

Through weekly physical fitness classes, the boys are able to participate in activities that promote respect, discipline, and teamwork. This includes working with a martial arts instructor to develop strong minds and bodies and having the opportunity to play team sports such as basketball and football to develop teamwork skills.
Community projects are also an important aspect of the program.For example Best Men collected non-perishable food items to donate to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey. The Community FoodBank of New Jersey provides food to New Jersey shelters, soup kitchens, emergency pantries, camps, after-school and senior citizen programs, and any other non-profit feeding programs.

For questions about the program or if you would like to volunteer your time to assist Bruce School students, please contact Jason Collins, Best Men Advisor, at (973) 705-3805.

Best Friends and Best Men meet every Wednesday after school from 3-4 pm. “Late” buses are provided so students can stay after school and still receive transportation home. In addition, Best Men meets every other week during the students’ lunch throughout the year.

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