Written by Celine Massuger, Assistant Principal
Mental Toughness is a mutual selection process in which potential participants gain an introduction to their chosen YouthBuild program and determine whether or not the program will be a good fit for them. Both the YouthBuild program and the participant need to decide to move forward in order for a participant to pass Mental Toughness and be enrolled into the YouthBuild program. Typically about 1-2 weeks in length, Mental Toughness is an introductory period that gives participants the chance to experience the YouthBuild program and to demonstrate their readiness for enrollment.
Each YouthBuild program may have a slightly different approach to Mental Toughness, including different requirements for passing. It is important to note that all potential participants must complete the requirements to pass Mental Toughness before they can be enrolled in the YouthBuild program and/or YouthBuild Charter School of California. YouthBuild programs may require returning participants to complete Mental Toughness at the beginning of each term, in order to ensure their commitment to ongoing success in the program. Mental Toughness can consist of community-building activities, which can have a physical component, such as a relay race, or be deep and reflective, such as Crossing the Line.
Many YouthBuild programs include workshops introducing different components of programming such as an intro to Vocational Training or Support Services. Mental Toughness also serves as a time to introduce potential participants to the existing YouthBuild program culture, and build a collective culture amongst everyone on campus. This can occur through establishing community agreements, reviewing policies and procedures, and introducing core values. During Mental Toughness, a YouthBuild program may also administer formative assessments to measure participants’ skill level in different subject areas. They may also provide training regarding technological apps that the participants may be expected to use in their classes.
During Mental Toughness, a participant’s academic transcript will be reviewed and a course schedule will be created that meets the needs of that individual to set them on a path towards graduation. Mental Toughness sets YouthBuild participants up for success in the program, making it not just a requirement but a valuable experience that builds skills and sets the tone for a productive school year.