GirlsUP Middle School Curriculum
Ages 10–13Our innovative curriculum is rooted in five key pillars designed to launch a girl on a journey toward an authentic sense of self.
The GirlsUP Philosophy
When a girl knows who she is, she’s less likely to let the world decide for her.
At GirlsUP, we believe self-discovery is the foundation for critical thinking, leadership, and resilience. Through guided discussions and shared experiences, girls develop a stronger sense of identity and purpose to help navigate adolescence and adulthood with confidence.
Five Pillars of Self-Discovery
Self-Awareness
“To Thine Ownself Be True”
Understanding who you truly are.
Self-Image
“To Be and Not to Seem”
Exploring how other people’s perceptions shape how you see yourself.
Self-Expression
“Looking the World Straight in the Eye”
Finding your voice through speaking, journaling and creative arts.
Self-Reliance
“Standing Strong When it Counts”
Standing strong and making decisions that reflect your character.
Self-Giving
“A Girl for Others”
Turning your inner strengths outward to serve others and the community.
Self-Awareness
“To Thine Ownself Be True”
Understanding who you truly are.
Self-Image
“To Be and Not to Seem”
Exploring how other people’s perceptions shape how you see yourself.
Self-Expression
“Looking the World Straight in the Eye”
Finding your voice through speaking, journaling and creative arts.
Self-Reliance
“Standing Strong When it Counts”
Standing strong and making decisions that reflect your character.
Self-Giving
“A Girl for Others”
Turning your inner strengths outward to serve others and the community.
The GirlsUP Experience
GirlsUP's middle school curriculum is delivered through summer sessions, after-school programming, and school-day enrichment. Within each format, girls engage in age- and experience-appropriate programming designed to meet them where they are in their self-discovery journey.
Summer Sessions
An immersive week of innovative Socratic dialogue, discussion, creativity, and connection designed to help girls better understand themselves and the world around them.
GirlsUP has been running weeklong summer programs since 2008.
Self-Awareness
character assessment, mantras, theme songs, yoga
Self-Image
examining cultural influences and messages about girls’ worth
Self-Expression
public speaking, dramatic improvisation, artist guest
Self-Reliance
decision-making, intuition exercises, martial arts and self-defense
Self-Giving
community focus, monument design project, UN Girl Up Campaign advocates
School-Day and After-School Enrichment Programs
GirlsUP partners with schools to bring its five-pillar curriculum directly into classrooms. Programs can be adapted to support counseling initiatives, SEL goals, class schedules, and enrichment programs.
The GirlsUP school program has launched in New York and Washington DC, and continues to expand to new school communities.
- Flexible scheduling
- Aligned with SEL and counseling goals
- Built around the five pillars of self-discovery
- Available as workshops or multi-session programs
- Designed for middle school girls