Big Ideas, Real Impact

Roots and Wings is an innovative leadership initiative developed through the Harvard Graduate School of Education to empower young men of color from 4th through 12th grade. Anchored in high-level communication, social-emotional learning, and African American history, the program helps boys learn the language of survival, improve their school performance, and stand firmly in who they are. As a capstone, 11th- and 12th-graders complete a two-year study of financial literacy to master personal finance, build community confidence, and strategically plan for the future.

History

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Communication

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Individualized Social Emotional Learning

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Economic Empowerment

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History · Communication · Individualized Social Emotional Learning · Economic Empowerment ·

Our Process

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    History

    Roots and Wings anchors young men of color in their identity by delving into the rich legacy of African American history, giving participants a profound, grounded understanding of who they are.

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    Communication

    The initiative equips the boys with sophisticated verbal tools, teaching them the language of survival and strategies for resolving conflict so they can navigate real-world challenges safely.

  • Geometric drawing of an outline square with sections divided by vertical, horizontal, and circle lines.

    Individualized Social Emotional Learning

    Our personalized social-emotional learning framework creates a secure holding environment that prioritizes emotional literacy and resilience, empowering every student to improve their school performance.

  • Geometric drawing of an outline square with sections divided by vertical, horizontal, and diagonal lines.

    Economic Empowerment

    As a capstone, 11th and 12th graders engage in a two-year intensive study in economic empowerment to master wealth building, personal finance management, and strategic future planning.

"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced."

James Baldwin

Reach out to find out more about our official launch at spiral house park

august 1-2, 2026