Invitation to “What Boys Need”, a FREE Virtual Conference for Advocates of Boys

At Cherokee Creek Boys School (CCBS), we believe every boy deserves the chance to rediscover confidence, purpose and joy.

We see it every day – the power of understanding how boys learn, grow and connect.

We are thrilled to share an incredible opportunity to deepen that understanding about what boys need.

This January (2026), our friend and mentor, Michael Gurian, New York Times’ bestselling author and founder of the Gurian Institute, is one of the sponsors of the “What Boys Need as Males” Conference and one of the many experts speaking at this extraordinary event.

— Free Virtual Conference —

A Global Conversation on Raising Boys into Men in the 21st Century

Whether you are a parent, educator, counselor or someone who simply cares about the next generation of young men, this free virtual conference offers essential, science-based insight into what boys need to help them thrive.

Dates: January 23 – 26, 2026
Location: Virtual (on Zoom)
Cost: Free (registration required)
Register for the conference below (bottom of conference page)

Why This “What Boys Need” Conference Matters

The challenges boys face today are both urgent and universal. Across the globe, boys are struggling with mental health, education, purpose and connection. Rates of anxiety, depression and academic disengagement are rising. Many parents tell us they feel uncertain about how best to guide their sons through an increasingly complex world.

Michael Gurian and a remarkable lineup of international experts are bringing together decades of neuroscience, psychology and education research to help answer one vital question …

Every session offers practical tools and perspectives that can be used immediately in homes, schools and communities.

A Science-Based, Hope-Filled Approach

The “What Boys Need As Males” conference takes a science-based approach to understanding male development – one that embraces the beautiful complexity of both nature and nurture.

Here are just a few of the key topics being explored:

• How neuroscience is reshaping what we know about how boys learn and grow.
• Understanding brain-based differences in learning and emotional development between boys and girls.
• What works in education, mentorship and parenting to support healthy male development.
• The growing mental health crisis among boys and men – and strategies for hope and healing.
• How supporting boys and men ultimately helps girls, families and communities flourish.

You’ll hear from respected voices like:

• Dr. Leonard Sax, author of Boys Adrift, on what’s holding boys back in education and how to re-engage them.
  
• Christina Hoff Sommers, author of The War Against Boys, exploring how to reclaim balance and fairness in the way we nurture our sons.
• Dr. Glynetta Fletcher, who will share strategies for empowering boys through community and purpose.
• John Gray, on the biological and sociological roots of male development.
  

And that’s just the beginning. Other inspiring presenters include:

Why This Conference Resonates with the CCBS Mission

At CCBS, we are honored that Michael Gurian has officially designated Cherokee Creek Boys School as a Gurian Model School, the first therapeutic boarding school to earn that distinction.

This recognition reflects our deep commitment to creating a “boy-friendly” environment in every classroom, therapy session and outdoor adventure. Gurian’s research has guided us for years, helping us understand what science confirms: boys’ brains are DIFFERENT.

There are over 100 identified differences between the brain structure of boys and girls. Developmental processes, hormonal rhythms and learning styles vary in meaningful ways.

That means boys need different kinds of support in how they learn, express emotion, build friendships and experience success.

At Cherokee Creek, we weave these insights into everything we do:

• Our academics are hands-on, active and designed to ignite curiosity.
• Our therapy and counseling focus on emotional literacy, resilience and connection.
• Our outdoor adventures give boys a sense of accomplishment, teamwork and joy.
• Our character development programs guide students in discovering who they are and who they want to become.

Together, these elements form what we call “a place where boys can be boys” – a place where healing, growth and self-discovery happen naturally.

Supporting Boys, Supporting Families

A Shared Commitment

The upcoming “What Boys Need As Males” conference is more than an event – it’s a movement toward deeper understanding and community.

Current CCBS Parents

It’s an opportunity to expand the conversations we have every day about how to best nurture your son’s strengths and growth.

Alumni Families

It’s a way to stay connected to the ideas that helped your son thrive and to share them with others.

Educational Consultants, Friends and Schools

It’s a chance to learn directly from thought leaders shaping the future of boys’ education and mental health.

Families Still Searching

For those wondering if their son might need something different, something more, this conference might be the beginning of finding hope and direction.

Join Us in the “What Boys Need” Conversation