Middle School students at The Miami Valley School spent three weeks in January learning what it truly means to be a leader as they took on topics of empowerment, equality and strength within their Girl Power Immersion.

Immersion at The Miami Valley School is an opportunity for students to focus deeply on one subject. By applying what they have learned through the education process to real-world experiences, students explore, share, and connect through ideas and by asking questions. Reflection also plays a big role, and in this case, Girl Power became the motivating theme. It is an opportunity to think about the world beyond themselves and learn about women’s history.

By working as a team, they researched ideas, bonded together, and created their own presentation for the MVS Immersion open house on Feb. 13, 2020.

“Immersion is an extension of the classroom and it’s when the students really make connections – the light bulb goes on and there’s empowerment in the process ,” said Susan Strong, Assistant Head of School for External Affairs for The Miami Valley School. “Students have an opportunity to take methods beyond the desk and learn from the environment around them.”

Eleven students in the Girl Power immersion and middle school teacher, Laurine Ferreira, had the opportunity to dig into women’s history and social justice, as well as explore self defense classes and visit Washington D.C., where they observed and participated in the Women’s March.

One of the highlights of the Girl Power Immersion was when the Mayor of Dayton, Nan Whaley, came to campus to discuss current events, her approach to leadership, and how young women have many opportunities to make a difference. The roundtable discussion was lively and inspiring for all.

“Mayor Whaley’s visit was such a privilege and a unique opportunity for these students,” Strong said. “ Opportunities to learn aren’t hidden in textbooks, they surround us, and we want our students to know they can reach out and ask questions at any time.”