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The transition to middle school, with an increased academic load, growing expectations of autonomy from family and teachers, and the loss of the familiar grade school single-teacher classroom, can be a difficult one. Girls at this age begin questioning their math and science skills, and their ability to compete in these subjects. To help girls make a successful transition, GSUSA, in partnership with the New York Life Foundation, has launched School Success Clubs.
The school-based clubs encourage girls' self-development and help build the confidence and leadership skills needed for high performance in academic classes. In School Success Clubs, trained adult club leaders not only provide instruction and guidance in educational activities, but act as positive role models for the girls. The clubs meet before, during, and after the school day in low-income communities and primarily target girls in the sixth, seventh and eighth grade.
Over the past two academic years, School Success Clubs have been piloted in twelve councils across the country. In conjunction with GSUSA, the councils have also contributed to the development of an interactive facilitator’s guide, "Mix it Up!" that is now being used by all pilot councils. This resource has proved so popular that it is now easily available to all councils through the Girl Scouts National Web site.
"We are proud to fund a program that will give young women many of the tools they need to overcome obstacles and succeed in life," said Christine Park, President of New York Life Foundation. "The curriculum will incorporate academic topics like science, technology, engineering, math, and life skills like career exploration, and financial literacy, often overlooked subjects for girls that warrant attention to build a solid academic foundation preparing them to become future leaders."
About New York Life Foundation
New York Life Foundation is the major vehicle through which New York Life Insurance Company channels contributions to national and local non-profit organizations. Through its Nurturing the Children initiative, the Foundation supports organizations, programs and services that target youth, particularly in the areas of mentoring, safe places to learn and grow, and educational enhancement opportunities. Since 1979, New York Life Foundation has donated more than $120 million to national and local non-profit organizations. |
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