Dr. John J. Ratey's TED Talk, "Run, Jump, Learn! How Exercise Can Transform Our Schools," offered powerful insights into how movement can revolutionize the way boys, in particular, learn and engage in the classroom. As a psychiatrist and researcher, Dr. Ratey explains that physical activity can enhance cognitive and emotional performance, helping students focus, retain information, and feel more connected to their learning.

One of the CCBE’s priorities is to develop and nurture our student research program. Over the last four years, we have enlisted dozens of boys to share insights, build research competencies and inspire change in the Crescent School student experience. According to Sandoval and Messiou (2020), studies that employ students as researchers/co-researchers focusing on school improvement and inclusion are a powerful way to support school change and empower students.

A sense of belonging is essential for boys' success in educational settings. When boys feel part of a supportive community, they are more likely to thrive (Challenge Success, 2024). Research shows a strong, bi-directional relationship between a student's sense of belonging and their academic engagement (Pope & Miles, 2022). In light of this, educators are continually seeking effective ways to build connections, foster positive relationships, provide social support, and create a climate of care that celebrates each student’s unique identity and contributions (Challenge Success, 2024). However, as we know, this is no easy task.

In the Anishinaabemowin language, the term mino-bimaadiziwin describes a principle of living the good life or living in a good way. Mino-bimaaiziwin inspires Anishinaabe people to live in harmony with each other and the surrounding world. It permeates all elements of Anishinaabe life and ensures that the actions they take now will lead to a sustainable future for the next generations.

This year, we have embarked on an important change within our school environment - enforcing a new policy that restricts access to cell phones during the school day. Research across the past decade has consistently shown that excessive cell phone use negatively impacts student well-being.

The start of a new school year brings with it the promise of a fresh start. It is the perfect time to reflect on your teaching practice and set intentions for the year ahead.

Any boy who has played with a Batman or Spiderman action figure has been exposed to a toy of a male hero who possesses a hyper-muscular physique. In fact, if these toy’s dimensions were to scale, Batman’s biceps would be the same size as his waist. It is this type of unrealistic notion of the male body that garners admiration and respect from others, argues Dr. Roberto Olivardia, and has led many boys to develop an unhealthy obsession with the muscularity of their body and, ultimately, a harmful body image.

I recently attended an informative lecture by Dr. Roberto Olivardia that delved into the topic of body image in boys. With over 30 years of experience treating boys with various body image needs, Dr. Olivardia brought a wealth of knowledge and insight to the conversation. The lecture shed light on an often overlooked and misunderstood issue: 1 in 4 boys beginning as early as age 8 struggle with body image concerns.