Outside school, the group hosts field trips and other events. “We made the school-day meetings mandatory because we want those kids to get the message that we care and that if they want to participate further, then there are opportunities.”

Main story: Bullying prevention programs at 7 schools and districts

Field trips

Throughout the year, the group hosts field trips, some of which include fees. Girls have gone to the Greater Chicago Food Depository to package food, to the Jane Adams Hull-House museum, and to the movies to see Hidden Figures (Hernandez paid for the tickets). Students are transported to such activities on a 15-passenger bus.

Counselors at Oak Lawn Community High School present to parents on “Hazards Facing Our Teens Today.”

Guest speakers

Recently, the group hosted a two-day series event featuring a guest speaker from the Suleh Freedom Foundation, who talked to freshmen about healthy relationships. The speaker provided examples of negative relationships, and led a Q&A session on how anyone can be preyed upon. “She said how a football quarterback or a quiet kid can be preyed upon,” says Hernandez. “All your stereotypes have their strengths and weaknesses.”

Instant Insights /

Oak Lawn Community High School forms Spartan Sisterhood

Related Stories

Recommended For You