School to Success (STS) Pipeline

Innovative spaces for young men to succeed.

Youth Labs

Innovative spaces for young men to succeed

The School to Success (STS) Pipeline is a mentoring initiative designed to disrupt harmful School-to-Prison Pipeline narratives by empowering middle school male students through reflection, accountability, and self-efficacy. STS shifts the focus from punishment to growth, understanding, and leadership development.

Rather than labeling students by behavior, STS provides structured spaces where young men can process challenges, build emotional awareness, and strengthen decision-making skills that support success in school and life.

Why STS Matters

The STS Pipeline creates space for reflection instead of removal, conversation instead of conflict, and growth instead of punishment—helping young men develop the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.

Who We Serve

Middle school male students who:

Experience frequent discipline referrals
Struggle with impulsivity or emotional regulation
Need supportive, structured mentoring environments

How It Works

Small-group mentoring led by Frank Gaines, Ph.D.
Bi-weekly sessions
1-hour sessions using experiential and reflective learning
Curriculum adapts to student needs through ongoing assessment

Session Format (45–60 Minutes)

Check-In – Building trust and connection
Engaging Activity – Real-life scenarios and experiential learning
Guided Discussion – Critical thinking, voice, and accountability
Reflection & Closure – Applying lessons beyond the session

Vision Statement

STS envisions schools where young men are understood before disciplined, supported before removed, and equipped to lead their own success—building a School-to-Success culture.

Mission Statement

STS empowers middle school young men with the skills and support needed to grow, take accountability, and succeed in school and life.

Program Outcomes

Students participating in the STS Pipeline will demonstrate:

Increased self-efficacy and personal accountability
Improved emotional regulation and impulse control
Reduction in discipline referrals and classroom removals
Stronger communication and conflict-resolution skills
Greater engagement in school and positive peer interactions
Increased understanding of how choices impact future opportunities

Curriculum

Core Focus Areas

School Rules & Authority

Introduction to Parliamentary Procedure, Group Norms & Assignment of Roles

Helping students question systems respectfully and reduce power struggles.

Fairness of school rules
Student voice in discipline
Purpose of punishment vs. understanding

Fairness & Justice

Encouraging critical thinking about equity and consequences.

Labels and past behavior
Restorative practices vs. suspension
Respect, listening, and accountability

Masculinity & Emotional Growth

Normalizing emotional expression and self-control.

Emotions and strength
Conflict resolution
Healthy responses to anger

Community & Real Life Connections

Linking school behavior to life beyond the classroom.

Role models and respect
Learning from mistakes
Preparing for real-world success

Self-Control & Decision-Making

Reinforcing responsibility without shame.

Reactions vs. choices
Thinking before acting
Growth through discipline

Engagement & Incentives

Interactive activities and discussion
Recognition for effort and growth
Year-end rewards celebrating progress and commitment