Congratulations, TMS girls who crossed the finish line at the recent Girls on the Run 5K at Turner Field!
The race was the culmination of a 10-week program that teaches girls in grades 3 through 8 about the joys of running, friendship, goal-setting and gratitude.
Here are a few reasons the girls give for adding GotR to their already jam-packed after-school schedules:
- It makes me smile.
- It calms me.
- It makes me feel good.
- It activates my star power.
- It helps me get stronger and build on my goal.
Yolanda Silveri, a former classroom teacher who now teaches health and coordinates services for students who need support, took charge of GoTR this year. “I saw the value in helping girls develop a positive sense of self from an early age,” she says. “I love how this program emphasizes the benefits of staying physically active, making healthy friendships, giving back on your community, as well as thinking positive thoughts about oneself. “
Girls practice twice a week after school and spend part of the time in the classroom, doing activities that help them communicate better, work as a team and tap into their inner strength. Then, they run. They run around the lake and around the campus.
“What I love about this program is that it promotes full body wellness,” said Jessica Coffman, a TMS parent and avid runner who helps lead the program while her third-grade daughter, Parker, participates. “It is not just about the physical fitness. It gives them a safe place to talk openly, and gives girls the tools to navigate so many of the situations they are faced with.”
Jennifer Joyner volunteers alongside daughters Kate, a second-grader, and Natalie, a fifth-grader. “I love that it is teaching girls to be strong, confident, kind and independent.”
Community service is an important part of GotR. The girls chose to raise awareness of and funds for the One Love, One Heart 5K to benefit the Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation, in honor of Jen Pomfret, instructional support teacher, and her daughter, who is living with the condition.
Look for posters and announcements about the fundraiser, and consider joining us for the race on December 3.
To learn more about Girls on the Run, contact Ms. Silveri at [email protected].
