Be. Promoting Healthy Relationships:

• 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused by the age of 18.
• 44% of rape victims are under the age of 18.
• 80% of 8th – 11th graders report being sexually harassed at school.
• 71% of teens have online profiles.
• 64% post photos or videos of themselves online.
• 42% report being bullied online.
• 20% report being hit, slapped or pushed by a partner.
• 23% of teen girls report being pressured into sexual activity.
  

These statistics portray the critical need for education regarding personal safety and healthy relationships.
Changing social norms in our community and stopping sexual violence before it happens are key components to advocacy and education at SAC.

“Be.” is a sexual assault awareness curriculum designed for 7th, 9th, and 11th graders. It focuses on promoting healthy relationships, while giving teens resources to get help if they experience teen dating violence. The hope is that teens will understand they are unique and valuable, and treat each other with respect. Another goal is to encourage and empower teens to make a difference by helping end sexual violence. Topics include healthy vs. unhealthy relationships, sexual harassment, Internet/technology relationships, sexual assault, media influences, and social norms.

If you are interested in learning more about the Be curriculum, contact the Sexual Assault Center at 615.259.9055 ext. 314 or via email at jcantrell@SACenter.org.
 
Be Overview:

• 50 Minute sessions
• 7th and 9th Grade can be taught by school counselors, wellness teachers, and P.E. teachers
• 11th Grade can be taught by school counselors and English teachers
• Tennessee State Standards identified
• Alternative projects and cross-curricular activities included
• Kit contains: teacher manual, handouts (to be photocopied), posters, DVDs, and teaching aids
• The first year includes a full-day required teacher training
   

Curriculum Topics:
7th Grade Curriculum

1. Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships
2. Flirting vs. Sexual Harassment
3. Internet Relationships & Safety
4. Sexual Abuse

9th Grade Curriculum

1. Influences on Our Relationships
2. Media Literacy & Influence on Our Relationships
3. Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships & The Cycle in Dating Violence
4. Sexual Assault (Myths vs. Facts, TN Laws- Consent and Coercion, Prompt Medical Attention, Local Resources)

11th Grade Curriculum

1. Healthy vs. Unhealthy Dating Partners & Conflict Resolution
2. Sexual Assault (Case Study, Alcohol & Drugs in sex crimes, STDs/HIV, Prevention)

 

Required Teacher Training:
To implement Be, a full-day teacher training is required. Be covers information on teen dating violence, best practices for using the curriculum, and how to facilitate discussions with teens about these difficult topics.