School Partner Based Programs

Research has found that the Girls Inc. experience makes a lasting difference in the lives of the girls we serve. And so, we are compelled to grow and bring Girls Inc. to more youth. That is why we have expanded our service delivery model to include school-based programming for both girls and boys around healthy sexuality, substance use prevention, and self-esteem building. In addition to the full Girls Inc. experience being delivered at our center in Shelbyville, we have taken programming that addresses the major issues that our youth face today, to both boys and girls in grades 4-8 in all schools in Shelby, Decatur, and Rush Counties.

INFORMED TOGETHER (4th & 5th Grades)

Informed Together is a program designed for students in 4th and 5th grade. During this program, students learn the basics of puberty. Male and female students will participate in a gender-specific program targeting the questions and decisions that are especially relevant as students are beginning or will soon begin to experience the physical and emotional changes of puberty. They learn that puberty is the time in a person’s life when the reproductive system matures and changes so that their body can reproduce someday when they are older if they choose to do so. Students learn the medically correct terms for their own reproductive anatomy and how their reproductive system works. Students also learn about non-communicable and communicable diseases, and how proper hygiene prevents the spread of communicable diseases. Students learn through engaging discussions and activities throughout the program and are encouraged to ask questions. Students also receive a hygiene kit at the conclusion of the program.

INFORMED AND IN CHARGE (7th & 8th Grades) 

Our Informed and In Charge program (for students in 7th & 8th grade) allows students to learn to identify, establish, and cultivate healthy relationships through understanding personal values, goals, and decisions and assertive communication. Students will increase their understanding of sexuality, including ways to demonstrate respect, equity, and fairness. Students will also gain critical information and participate in opportunities to communicate about their bodies and their values around sexual decision-making. Male and female students will participate in a gender-specific program targeting the questions and decisions that are especially relevant as students are beginning or will soon begin to experience the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Throughout the program, students experience the power of a support system and build critical thinking skills for being sexually healthy. We work to ensure that students have the skills, knowledge, and support to take charge of their sexual health and avoid risky behavior.

Students participate in approximately 5 hours of healthy sexuality instruction where they are immersed in a safe and inclusive environment. Students are encouraged to ask questions and engage in interactive activities and discussions throughout the program. They explore values, practice responses in different situations, and think about their future. This helps students identify ways and reasons to avoid unplanned pregnancies and prevent sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.