Girls’ night out
Thanks to all who made it happen
Dear Editor:
Stanwood Middle School recently hosted its third annual seventh-grade girls’ retreat on March 19. The purpose for this event was to provide our adolescent girls with positive role models, new experiences, and the opportunity to learn and grow from others as well as themselves.
Each girl was able to attend three sessions. This year’s sessions included self defense training, jewelry making, and Internet safety. Students also enjoyed two keynote speakers and a session of Zumba.
I want to take this opportunity to thank the many people that volunteered their time for our event:
Stanwood Middle School staff: Cindy Stuart, Carol Covert, Meighan Nichols, Lynell Lewis, Sara Harlan, Pam Dunbar, Samantha Smothermon, Barbara Marsh, Kathy Bridenbaugh, and Jennifer Harlan.
From the community: Deputy Erin McIntyre from Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office for teaching self defense and Detective Lee Malkow for teaching Internet safety; Pam Dunbar for teaching jewelry making and cyber bullying; Julie Rzechula for teaching Zumba; and directors of Leadership Skagit, Kate Bennett and Maureen Harlan, for presenting leadership skills and goal setting strategies to our girls.
All of these individuals volunteered their time and talents to make this event a success. I am sincerely thankful that we have such caring individuals working in our schools and living in our community.
Our adolescent girls are lucky to have this opportunity. Keli Niegemann Stanwood
