High school students, according to research, should be particularly concerned about their ninth grade or freshman year, identified as a critical transition period, which can be especially challenging for 14-year-old Black girls, who face unique obstacles. To address this, Michelle Hollinger, CEO of The Institute for Worthy Living, has created PrepHERation, a seven-week group coaching program designed to equip Black girls with essential tools to thrive in their freshman year.
Hollinger explained that Black girls often encounter adultification, where they’re treated as older than they are due to assumptions about their maturity. This can lead to stricter penalties and less leniency from teachers, administrators, and security personnel. Moreover, research shows that 9th-grade grades often mirror 11th-grade grades, which are crucial for college applications. Therefore, it’s crucial to support Black girls in their first year of high school.
PrepHERation intentionally uses a group approach to foster a sense of community and sisterhood among participants. One group is specifically designed for girls raised without a father figure, addressing unique challenges they face. The program focuses on developing intangible qualities like self-worth, self-validation, courage, and effective communication skills to combat adultification. By strengthening these skills, girls can focus on academics and enjoying their high school experience.
The program is ideally suited for the summer before high school, empowering girls with mental and emotional tools before they need them. Parents can learn more about PrepHERation and pre-order Hollinger’s book, “Sis, You’re Worth It: Seven Ideas for Manifesting Your Best Life,” at theinstituteforworthyliving.com.
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