"This group is like a nest. We can talk about anything, and it doesn’t leave the room," said Brittany Embree, a former Rose Hill Elementary student.The group Embree is describing is known as "B Yourself." It’s an after-school club open to any sixth-grade girl at Rose Hill and it aims to help prepare students for life in middle school. A few staff members spearheaded the group last spring after a group of girls expressed interest in learning more about health and wellness and preparing for seventh grade."It’s a tough time in their lives and having connections and relationships will help," said Kristen McCrillis, one of the club’s sponsors. "They have great questions and the club allows them to spend time building relationships with their peers outside of school."

During the club’s first year, "B Yourself" organizers invited various speakers to Rose Hill to tackle a range of topics. One week, a middle school teacher and students visited about expectations and activities in middle school. During another meeting, two parents spoke about hygiene, facial care and makeup. Other speakers included a dietician, fitness trainer, and former professional athlete.

"We hope to teach them that it’s okay to be who you are and like what you like," said Robin Jensen, a program sponsor.

The girls who participated said they liked the club’s camaraderie and confidentiality and the chance to ask questions they normally wouldn’t ask in a classroom setting.

"It’s only girls, and it’s only the people who want to come," said Ashley Swift, a former Rose Hill student. "I joined because it sounded like a chance to learn about things like going to middle school and how to deal with peer pressure."

Thanks to a successful start last spring, McCrillis and Jensen plan to offer "B Yourself" again this school year. They’re also encouraging other schools to create similar clubs.

"This program allows students to open up and support each other and that helps their self-esteem," said Jensen.

"I think it would be great for other schools to try it out to build community," added McCrillis.