Highcliff Elementary School sixth-grade girls recently took part in R.E.D. (Respecting, Empowering, Developing), a new leadership program created just for them by Highcliff teachers Maria Shevchik and Jill Zunic.
The program welcomed 33 girls, and it sought to empower attendees as they prepare to enter middle school next school year. Activities throughout the evening event sought to help attendees develop self-esteem, healthy relationships, positive body image and safe social media habits. These activities included breakout sessions about healthy cooking, drug and alcohol awareness, healthy relationships and smart digital decisions; a sunflower canvas painting, Zumba class and a self-defense course taught by a Ross Township police officer among other happenings. Each attendee received a gift bag filled with product samples and information related to the program’s activities.
The R.E.D. program was inspired by a leadership development program Miss Shevchik attended while she was in middle school. She states that she found it so impactful that she knew that when she became a teacher, she would create a program like it for her students.
Miss Shevchik and Mrs. Zunic would like to thank the event sponsors:
- S.A.F.E. Program at Ross Township Police Department
- Baierl Family YMCA
- Good L’Oven Cookie Shop
- West View Floral
- Pat Catan’s
- Target
- Frank’s Pizza
- NHSD Food Services
- Highcliff PTO
- Highcliff Elementary Staff
- Eat ‘n Park
- Dr. Debra T. Abell M.D. (Dermatology)
- Beauty Counter
- The Campanella Family
- The Dittman Family