How we help in schools
School plays a critical role in the social-emotional development of girls and all youth. While students are learning facts and figures, critical-thinking skills, and how to relate and connect with each other and adults, they are also faced with a multitude of challenges that come with being a young person in our culture. Middle school and high school students navigate developing self-esteem, puberty, social relationships, body image, and so much more.
OP partners with school districts across Oregon to provide Girl Empowerment Groups, Young Amazing Women of Color Empowerment Groups, Classroom Presentations to all students, and Staff Training and Parent Education opportunities. We work closely with school counselors and administration to determine the best way to support their students and staff. If you’re interested in seeing an OP School Partnership in your school, please call (541) 284-4333 or use the button below to get started.
OP In-Classroom Presentations
Girls are impacted by many people and situations in their lives — particularly by peers. Classroom presentations to all students of all genders provide an interactive and engaging way to discuss valuable topics, including:
Peers as Allies
Internet Safety
Sexual Harassment
Healthy Friendships
Media & Body Image
Digital Decisions
Healthy Relationships
Presentations are offered in person, virtually, or via a pre-recorded video. All of Ophelia’s Place presentations fulfill the Oregon Department of Education standards by design for 8th grade health education. These presentations are most frequently used in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade.
Girls Empowerment Groups
Girls Empowerment Groups nurture self-esteem, peer connection, and encourage self-expression in a small group setting. These closed groups meet one hour a week over eight weeks, and consist of 6-8 girl-identified participants. Ophelia’s Place staff facilitate a strengths-based curriculum that discusses:
Ways that media and social media impact body image and self-esteem
Friendships with other girls
Gender stereotypes and expectations
Developing communication and conflict resolution skills
Navigating challenging friendships and relationships
Benefits of implementing and practicing self-care
Young Amazing Women of Color Groups
YAWOC groups serve to hold a space for self-identified girls of color to come together and share their unique experiences with one another. This group focuses on the intersectional experience of being both a girl and person of color in our culture. During this group, girls will discuss topics such as racism and stereotypes, and participate in activities related to personal power and self-care. Additional topics include:
Ethnic identity and cultural pride
Deconstructing stereotypes and discrimination
Examination of media influence and representation on body image & self-esteem
The importance of cultivating friendships and alliances with other girls
Navigating difficult transitions and peer pressure
School Staff and Parent Education
It takes a holistic approach to support girls in our communities. Ophelia’s Place is committed to providing support and education to the adults that have some of the biggest impacts on a young person’s life. Staff and parent trainings focus on providing research-based interventions and suggestions for supporting students.
Ophelia’s Place offers presentations on topics that are also provided to students, as well as additional topics such as relational aggression, boundaries, social media, and self-care. These presentations can be provided during staff meetings, in-service days, or after school/evening meetings.
Parents and parent groups can participate in adult education opportunities, including customized parent meetings, in school or in a personal setting. To learn more or to have Ophelia’s Place present at your parent meeting, call (541) 284-4333 or email info@opheliasplace.net.