Community connection and outreach are hallmarks of the Sophia Academy experience. In myriad ways, we immerse our students in the real world where they can learn and share their wisdom.
This fall, our eighth grade was fortunate to participate in the R.I.S.E. Women’s Leadership conference as attendees. One student, Ju’elle West, joined the Young Women’s Circle panel facilitated by Lincoln School Head Suzanne Fogarty and City Councilwoman Nirva LaFortune. The youngest member on the panel, Ju’elle did a fabulous job representing her school as she conversed with fellow panelists on what it’s like to be a teen girl in these times, and how mentors can help young people connect to their authentic selves.
Throughout the day, adults made note of our students’ presence; their smart questions in breakout sessions on women in nontraditional careers and entrepreneurship; and their full participation in the program. Our students rise to every occasion, and this conference was no exception.
Even more exciting is that now, with their first womens’ conference under their belts, the eighth graders are planning their own conference for other middle school girls, which will take place during Women’s History Month in March.
In this way, the R.I.S.E. conference lives on in their learning and as they apply the experience to an ambitious project, and continue to share their wisdom.
I couldn’t be prouder of these committed, creative students!
From Maura Farrell, Head of School