Beacon Middle student-led program empowers young women

Beacon Middle School has officially launched EmpowHER, a new student-led organization designed to support and empower young women all through their middle school experience.

EmpowHER is a comprehensive program that will begin for girls in seventh grade. It focuses on fostering social-emotional growth, academic success, and college and career exploration for female students, and strives to create a supportive and inclusive community. Together, participants will develop self-awareness, build resilience, set boundaries and cultivate strong, positive relationships with the support of their peers in the group and advisors. Through empowering activities, open discussions and skill-building opportunities, EmpowHER aims to inspire each girl to realize her full potential and confidently navigate the challenges of life.

By eighth grade, students will revisit these key topics with an expanded focus on college and career readiness. Through community partnerships and out-of-school excursions, participants will connect with local women entrepreneurs and professionals, gaining firsthand insights and inspiration from strong female role models. “EmpowHER has helped me see that it’s OK to be confident, to speak up and to support other girls,” said eighth-grader Carlee Cabello. “We’re learning how to be leaders not just in school, but in everyday life, too.”

In its inaugural year, EmpowHER currently includes 11 eighth-grade students, with plans to form the first seventh-grade cohort by the end of the first marking period.

“EmpowHER creates a safe, supportive space where girls can build confidence, explore their potential and learn from one another,” said Elizabeth Hahn, Beacon Middle School teacher and EmpowHER advisor. “We want each student to see that her voice matters, and that her dreams are achievable.”

Beacon Middle School believes every girl has the power and potential to achieve her dreams, support others and make a meaningful difference in the world.