This post was published on Henry Herald on Feb 28, 2018, by Heather Middleton
STOCKBRIDGE — Stockbridge High School students are taking a different approach to talking about the seriousness and responsibility of teen pregnancy.
Under the guidance of Family and Consumer Science teacher Leigh Jackson and following a Lead2Feed curriculum, students have created a pep rally dubbed “The Daddy Rally” with the aim of educating young men, specifically ninth-graders.
Jackson said female students in her classes brought up the idea because often the focus is placed on girls when talking about teen pregnancy.
“They wanted to impact a different group,” Jackson said. “They wanted to let the boys know that they are just as responsible for the decisions that are made.”
The rally, Jackson said, will be something like a “baby shower with a twist.”
Several games like diaper changing and speed drills wearing a maternity belly will be played. Additionally, a male speaker from the Pregnancy Resource Center of Henry County will talk to male students about pregnancy and the role young men play in teen pregnancy.
Monies raised from the rally will be donated to the resource center.
But Jackson said the learning and teaching will not end with the rally. She and her students are getting other Stockbridge High clubs involved in raising money and collecting needed items like diapers and clothes.
She said by getting the whole school involved, the message will make a greater impact and reach more students.
“This project is changing attitudes,” Jackson said. “I’m really, really proud of our kids.”
Jackson lauded the Lead2Feed Student Leadership Program. She said the lessons have aided students in becoming their best selves and learning to how they can impact their community in a positive way.
The program was developed to help “fill a gap in middle and high school education with innovative leadership lessons,” according to the organization.
“Our students remember these lessons,” Jackson said. “It’s giving them life principles and getting them involved.”