What did you do for your Gold Award project?
For my Gold Award project, I created a website for kids who are being cyberbullied where they can talk about their experience and get help. In addition, I created a unit of lesson plans for 4th – 6th grade teachers that teach what cyberbullying is, what to do about it, and how not to do it.
Why did you pursue this Gold Award project?
I came up with my project idea when I noticed that fights on social media started to carry over into my high school’s hallways as real fights. I also read stories about kids committing suicide because of cyberbullying. I wanted to do something to help.
How did your Gold Award project make a difference?
Through my project, I taught younger kids how to be careful and safe on the internet. I have also given kids a safe place to go on the internet if they are cyberbullied. I hope this makes a difference for a lot of kids.
What skills did you gain through earning your Gold Award?
By teaching lessons to elementary students, I increased my flexibility and adaptability which will help me as I pursue a teaching degree.
How did you make your project sustainable?
My project is sustainable because my Cyberbullying Unit lesson plans will be distributed throughout school districts in Colorado. Also, my website will continue indefinitely.
What was your connection to the national or global community?
Cyberbullying is the fastest growing form of harassment in the world.
What will you most remember about your Gold Award project?
The thing I will remember most about my project is the impact it will have on people. The stories that the kids shared with me about their experiences with cyberbullying really touched my heart. Also, I will remember how enthusiastic teachers were when they were given the lesson plans to use with their students.
How will earning your Gold Award help you in your future?
Since I hope to become a teacher, I hope my Gold Award project will help me get a teaching job some day.
Why do you feel the Gold Award is an important part of your Girl Scout experience?
The Gold Award is the top honor you can earn in Girl Scouts. It is the culmination of all the years of badges, projects, volunteer activities, and hard work.
***IMPORTANT NOTE: This blog represents only a small fraction of the hard work, dedication and requirements that go into earning a Girl Scout Gold Award. It is simply a brief summary, which is meant to inspire Girl Scouts to Go Gold in the future. For more information on earning your Gold Award, please email highestawards@gscolorado.org