Hazard Independent Hosts ‘Girls Planning for Success’ Squad Spectacular

Middle school girls from six schools in the KVEC region congregated at the Hazard High School football field on Thursday, March 30, for the first Girls Planning for Success (GPS) Squad Spectacular.  The program was envisioned by Sandy Johnson, superintendent of the Hazard Independent School System, and was developed by KVEC staff.  Ms. Johnson realizes the importance of mentoring and life skills education for young girls who are often facing issues in their private lives.

The curriculum for GPS, created by KVEC staff, encompasses the following topics:  Squad Building, Setting Goals, Being a Community, Leadership, Finding Inner Beauty, Self-Talk Matters, Untangling Our Emotions, Healthy Choices and Physical Fitness.  Activities that align with the Kentucky Academic Standards for Middle School Health Education have been designed for each theme.  Girls who volunteer to participate in the program receive a certificate upon the completion of a topic component.

The GPS event included motivational speeches by Sandy Johnson (superintendent), Taylor Williams (Hazard High School senior), Jenny Williams (Hazard Community College professor), Denise Davidson (attorney), and Amy Combs (director/owner of Montessori school).  The girls were encouraged by Ms. Johnson to “find something you have confidence in.  You can do whatever you want to…the sky is the limit”.  Ms. Williams reminded them that “the one thing you can control is your effort and hard work”.  This was reinforced by Ms. Combs, who stated, “The only person who can make a difference in your life is you”.

 

The value of physical activity was demonstrated through a one mile walk/run around the field.  The girls had lunch together and played fun but challenging games, such as “egg toss”.  Answering the question ‘what was your favorite part of the day?’, one young lady commented, “The whole day!”

Other quotes from the girls when describing their favorite thing about GPS include:“Being able to communicate with other girls with no boys around!” (Emily Eversole, Hazard Middle School)

“The fun we get to have and help prevent bullying and drugs” (Morgan Banks, Sebastian Middle School)

“We get to talk about things that have happened to us, and we get to talk to other girls.” (Katie Dotson, Phelps)

“How they inspire me to be the girl I want to be” (Brianna, Phelps)

“Being able to share my feelings and help other girls feel powerful and beautiful” (Raven Pearson, Phelps)

Schools participating in the eight weeks pilot program were Sebastian Middle School in Breathitt County, Emmalena Elementary in Knott County, Phelps Middle School in Pike County, Hazard Middle School in Hazard Independent School System, Letcher Middle School in Letcher County and Jenkins Middle School in Jenkins Independent School System.  The curriculum will be available online during the fall and spring semesters, with the culminating event taking place in the spring.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Welcome Back