Equinox RTC, a residential treatment center for teen boys ages 14-18, welcomed a Community Health Educator from Planned Parenthood to campus this past month. Students were trained in “Get Real” High School, a comprehensive evidence-informed sexuality education curriculum that empowers high school students to protect themselves from pregnancy and STIs.

This curriculum teaches social and emotional skills as key components of healthy relationships and responsible decision-making. It also provides a comprehensive understanding of sexual health, sexuality, and protection methods.

The program supports parents and other caring adults as the primary sexuality educators of their teens and encourages a dialogue between students and caring adults in their lives. The curriculum is developmentally appropriate, inclusive of LGBTQ+ youth, trauma-informed, and aligned to the National Education Standards using the CDC’s Health Education Curriculum Analysis Tool.

“We are thankful that our students were able to receive a sexual health education,” said Equinox Founding Partner Bryan Tomes. “We hope that this will properly prepare our students with knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values that will empower them to develop respectful social and sexual relationships.”

Equinox prepares students for their futures with a combination of physical and mental health programs. The program encourages students to find an overall positive mindset towards their physical and mental wellbeing. A comprehensive sexual health education teaches not only the basics of puberty and development but also instills in young people that they have the right to decide what behaviors they engage in and to say no to unwanted sexual activity. Furthermore, sex education helps young people to examine the forces that contribute to a positive or negative body image. For more information about Equinox’s mental health and fitness programming, visit equinoxrtc.com.

About Equinox RTC

Equinox RTC is a leading residential treatment center for boys ages 14-18. Equinox is unique in its focus on Trauma, Loss, and Attachment, providing clinically intensive treatment for boys struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, ASD, learning disabilities, and other emotional and behavioral needs. Equinox offers a combination of clinically sophisticated support with a whole-person approach including adventure therapy, health and fitness program, and a whole foods diet. Equinox provides a fully accredited school, with broad course selections taught by licensed teachers in a college-preparatory environment.