School Assemblies
The STONES assembly is a riveting 90-minute multi-media presentation that speaks to the relevant issues dominating youth culture today. STONES addresses suicide, low self-esteem and self-harm, social media and cyber-bullying, shame resulting from abuse, neglect, or sexual assault, personal tragedy, trauma, family dysfunction, and addiction. STONES Â uniquely adapts to the needs of each school by drawing from their extensive repertoire of films, dramas, dance pieces, musical numbers, and speaking points creating a tailor-made experience.
Part 1 of the STONES presentation engages girls on a journey of discovery allowing them to safely self-identify their emotional wounds and self-defeating mindsets. We effectively use the arts to break down barriers providing a necessary mirror into which a young woman can view her true self. She is not talked at, but instead, identified with. Students feel seen and heard.
Part 2 of the STONES presentation builds upon the theme of transformation through trials using tangible symbols of hope to inspire a fresh perspective. Students grasp the concept that their stones have the power to refine them, rather than define them resulting in their ability to visualize themselves as courageous wholehearted individuals worthy of love, academic success, and emotional well being.
Part 3 of the STONES presentation invites them to exchange destructive self-demoralizing labels for the greater truth of their preciousness, value, and worth. Physically writing on stones, participants consciously walk out their decision to reject self-sabotaging thought patterns leading to destructive vices and behaviors. STONES empowers girls with vision, purpose, and passion so that they too, can build bridges instead of walls.
Breakout Sessions
The STONES breakout session gives students hands-on tools to unpack and apply knowledge learned during our 90-minute presentation. Our cutting-edge EMPATHY training cultivates their ability to imagine, feel, and understand the emotional wounds of their peers, while in a safe and nurturing environment. Teaching students to EMPATHIZE is key to fostering prosocial behavior, limiting aggression, and diminishing social prejudice. Our STONES small group facilitators lead eye-opening activities and productive discussions, allowing girls to practice vulnerability, listening skills, empathy, connection, and kindness toward others.
The STONES breakout session challenges girls to flip their thinking by using a revolutionary step-by-step teaching method. We equip each student with concrete strategies to reclaim control over negative thought cycles. Our breakout session leaders skillfully engage despondent girls who might otherwise fall through the cracks. We empower them to STRATEGIZE new ways of coping with the inevitable stones of life.
The STONES breakout session culminates in celebration and declaration. Students collectively MEMORIALIZE their new found freedom and individual growth as they participate in a profoundly unifying group activity. Inspired and invigorated, students and staff take the message of STONES into the heart of the school creating a genuine atmosphere of empathy.
