West Patent Students Meet 'Girl Rising' Producer

A program at West Patent Elementary School has offered an enrichment group for students called “Gender Equity Champions” a chance to make a difference in the world.

The students have been learning about the plight of girls across the globe in seeking equal access to education, reports teacher Dorothy Venditto. Using the film, “Girl Rising” as a source for information and inspiration, the students brainstormed how they could make a difference.

They raised funds for the International Rescue Organization by selling 3D printed school mascot key rings. And, they created activities for students in kindergarten through grade 3 that prompted thought and conversation about how gender may influence choices.

Last week, the students hosted a visit by Kayce Jennings from the Girl Rising organization Ms. Jennings, Senior Producer/Director of Girl Rising Educators spoke at length about the students’ new learning and the influence of the film.

The students' goal is to influence other schools in the area to show the film and to begin their own action plan to drive change for the good of girls across the globe, Venditto said.