On Oct. 11, Antioch Unified School District holds a Day of Empowering Girls for 8th-grade young ladies.
Featuring some 600 students, this event was sparked by the Antioch Rotary Club’s sponsorship of “The Empowerment Project” documentary for the past two years. This collaborative workshop brings together Antioch, Black Diamond, Dallas Ranch, Orchard Park, and Park middle schools, along with several Antioch private schools.
The day kicks off with the documentary, followed by an array of engaging and thought-provoking activities, discussions with community leaders, and connecting with Antioch High School’s Girl Power group. Principals and staff from the middle schools, along with Antioch Rotary leadership, will facilitate the day. The keynote speaker is Sarah Moshman, film director of the “The Empowerment Project.”
This successful “Empowerment” program has been endorsed by AUSD superintendent Stephanie Anello, along with Tom Torlakson, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. In a letter to the Antioch Rotary Club, Torlakson said Antioch’s Empowerment Project Program “is an outstanding program I would like to see expanded to a wide range of California students and their schools,” adding this program “give(s) hope and inspiration to young women at a time when they often need it most.”
The film’s objective is to create conversation and motivate as the students hear the stories of the featured women, including a Four-Star Navy Admiral, pilot, professional athlete, chef and architect. In addition to the movie, some 20 female role models will discuss their careers and lead a Q&A.
Participating principal Lindsay Wisely of Antioch Middle School said “The Empowerment Project was an absolute game changer for her 8th-grade girls. It helped build community and a sisterhood, and connected students to women leaders who inspire. Students walked away feeling empowered, intrigued, and excited to learn more. This program not only impacts our schools but the community.”
Sponsored by the Antioch Rotary, the Day of Empowering Girls runs from 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Oct. 11 at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds, 1201 West 10th St. in Antioch.