Sole Sisters/Brothers brings students together
- Shanda Crosby
- May 21
- 2 min read
Running obviously has physical and mental health benefits, but its social benefits are equally powerful.
A new CCPS FRYSC initiative called Sole Sisters (and Brothers) was a big hit this spring with students of all ages. Participants got their steps in while building self-esteem and relationships.
Based on a national program called Girls on the Run, Sole Sisters empowers children and young adults to develop healthy habits and boost social-emotional skills through the joy of running.
RDC FRYSC Whitney Snell and Shearer FRYSC Kristi Carter started the group in Clark County after learning about Girls on the run at a conference.
"Girls on the Run is expensive so we decided to make our own group for the district and make it free for all," Mrs. Snell explained.
She enlisted the help of RDC MTSS McKenna Jackson to develop a curriculum for the group. All FRYSC coordinators organized and promoted Sole Sisters in their schools.
From friendship bracelets inscribed with "Sole" to matching T-shirts, the group was off and running for the six-week after-school program.
"We had dual goals of enhancing physical fitness and fostering social-emotional well-being," Mrs. Snell said. After 30 minutes of team building, students joined for 30 minutes of running and walking. The program culminates with a 5k race.
Though this year's final Sole Sisters event was rained out, the groups celebrated with pizza and craft parties. Every participant was given a shirt in their group color.
"Post survey results at RDC indicate significant positive changes in participants' exercise habits, self-perception, emotional security, and ability to form friendships," Mrs. Snell said. "Our plans for next year will be to continue to offer the program again at all schools in the spring. We are looking forward to hosting the district wide 5k next year to celebrate the participants' success! We want to continue to build upon this year's success and have even larger participation numbers next year."
