Girls on the Run

This title sounds almost like a show where you would expect monsters chasing kids down the street!  It is nothing like this and actually (in my eyes) gives girls a "running start" through adolescence.  This program is currently being run for girls in grades 3-5 at the Lamprey River Elementary School and promotes well being.  According to the philosophy of the "Girls on the Run" program:

"The Girls on the Run lessons encourage positive emotional, social, mental and physical development.  Participants explore and discuss their own beliefs around experiences and challenges girls face at this age.  They also develop important strategies and skills to help them navigate life experiences. We start with helping the girls get a better understanding of who they are and what’s important to them.  Then, we look at the importance of team work and healthy relationships.  And, finally, the girls explore how they can positively connect with and shape the world."

If you happened to see the excellent presentation done last week by 2nd Grade Teacher, Kelly Garcea and two of her students, it is easy to see their passion about the program, how it has helped them see things differently, and prepared them to react (or not) to peer pressure.  The students spoke to the School Board about the feeling of belonging they have within the group and their pride at running a 5K at the end of the three month program.  Every week, Ms. Garcea explained, involves a new theme for the girls to work on.  One example was 'gratitude' and the girls each expressed ways in which they are grateful.  Another important component to this program is 'community' and how to make your community a better place.  The girls spoke from the heart about some of the things they have done:  everything from role playing to making positive posters to hang around the school.

Ms. Garcea also explained that there is a waiting list to join the program and a desire to have the Girls on the Run 6th-8th grade program at the middle school.  She said it is sometimes difficult to find advisors for the program as it is done on a volunteer basis.  If anyone is interested in running a program (either an additional elementary team or to start a team at the middle school), please contact Ms. Garcea at the elementary school (895-3117).  All coaches go through a training session and more information is available at: 

 http://www.girlsontherunnh.org/get-involved/events

Although it may be too late for an additional spring team this year, the Program Directors typically put the fall teams together in May/June.  The sessions are the same for all teams:

• Session Calendar: 10 weeks, 20 lessons.
• Structured Curriculum- with lessons that build upon one another  
• Healthy Snack at each lesson
• Involvement in a Community Impact Project that the girls design.
• End of Season 5k Celebration (This spring season's race is Sunday, June 7th- Concord)
• At least two trained coaches (one CPR/First Aid Certified with the girls at all times)
  
  
  I'm proud we offer such a great program for our students and only hope that the program grows.  Thanks to Ms. Garcea and our student presenters for sharing this with everyone.