Girls Only Group at Berry Creek Middle School

Sixth graders from the Girls Only Group at Berry Creek Middle School shared their program high points at their end of session celebration. The program is one of The Youth Foundation’s After School Enrichment activities. Alejandra and Marisol loved the self defense classes. “I have a lot of weapons from shoes, to nails, to keys to protect myself. My voice is the strongest way I can show my strength and personal power,” described Marisol in a clear, strong tone.

Arlene liked planting flowers that represented the patience needed to grow friendships. When she showed her older sister, who is the firstborn in the family what she learned in the Martial Arts class, she thought it was really funny to see Arlene so strong!

Briceida enjoyed the relaxation of yoga, learning how to protect herself, and knowing the importance of liking herself. Girls that before this program were merely acquaintances are now Briceida’s friends.

Steffania and Karina both found the yoga to be relaxing and peaceful. Steffania especially liked the Dove video identifying that . . . “the beauty that is inside us matters the most. Before I was just Alex’s sister, now girls know me by my name, Steffania. You can make friends that stay your friends your entire life.”

Abigail liked all of the activities in the girls program, but her favorite part of the after school programs is soccer with Coach Lee.

Marbeth thought the stretching in yoga was especially relaxing. She related the difference from elementary to middle school –taking seven classes in one day and getting to know some new girls has opened a new world for her.

Dayanna described several tokens that she carries with her as a reminder of many messages learned in the Girls Only Group: a band-aid to symbolize healing any problem with time and care, a toothpick to remember to “pick” good choices and pick positive solutions, glue to stick together when times are tough, and a rubber band as a reminder to stay flexible in friendships.

Student recommendations to improve the program? Dayanna and Alejandra think the program should run the entire school year. Thank you to Ms. Narda, Ms. Nita, Ms. Aliria and the great Interns for contributing to the strength and smarts of BCMS girls. The seventh grade girls will start their eight week Girls Only program in January.