GLOCESTER – A program that blends essential life skills with physical activity is coming to West Glocester Elementary School this fall, with girls in grades 3 through 5 now invited to register.
Girls on the Run Rhode Island will bring a 10-week, 20-lesson program to the school led by School Nurse Whitney Desrosiers and School Psychologist Sarah Duncan, along with a team of parent volunteers.
The initiative comes to the school thanks to a collaboration between members of the Glocester Elementary School Wellness Committee and School Committee member Amy Ferreira Mallet.
“I’ve been hopeful that the program would get off the ground for years and then I was approached by Nurse Whitney,” Ferreira Mallet told NRI NOW this week.
“Girls on the Run inspires individuals of all abilities to discover, build, and grow their self-confidence,” notes the website for the non-profit organization. “Together, they experience a sense of belonging and connection as a team. Volunteer coaches facilitate lessons that blend physical activity with life skill development.”
With around ten locations in the state and neighboring Massachusetts, Girls on the Run Rhode Island is an independent council of the larger international organization, which has a network of more than 200 councils across 50 states and the District of Columbia. Proponents note that it far different from your typical competition-driven athletic program and is appropriate for all levels of fitness and ability. Even girls who are not really into running are encouraged to participate as walking, skipping, rolling and pushing all qualify – with the goal of simply moving forward.
“We are much more than a running program, and every participant can benefit from the experience of building confidence through accomplishment while participating in our rich, curriculum-based, age-appropriate, interactive lessons,” the website notes.
Trained volunteer coaches plan to facilitate lessons in Glocester that blend physical activity with life skill development, including managing emotions, fostering friendships and expressing empathy. At the end of the season, the team completes a community impact project and a 5K together.
“Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just want to try something new, this is your chance to be part of something special, build confidence, and create lasting memories,” noted Ferreira Mallet. Of participants, she added, “We hope they will learn to prioritize movement as an aspect of their wellness, positive self esteem and self image and prepare them for the cross country and track and field teams at the middle school level.”
The cost to register is $180 per girl, but help is available with a sliding scale based on household income, and payment plans are also an option. The fee covers all 20 90-minute sessions, curriculum and lesson materials, a GOTR t-shirt and water bottle, and the 5K registration, medal and celebration.
Registration is now open to all 3rd through 5th grade girls attending West Glocester Elementary this fall and can be found here. Volunteers are also needed and those interested are asked to contact Desrosiers at the school at (401) 567-0350 or [email protected].
