Girls on the Run is a nationwide nonprofit organization designed for 4th and 5th grade girls that inspires participants to be joyful, healthy, and confident through an experience-based curriculum that integrates running. Lessons focus on navigating friendships, managing emotions, and standing up for themselves and others. Twice-weekly sessions include running, walking, or using mobility devices, making the program accessible to girls of all abilities, and financial assistance is often available to ensure everyone can participate. The season culminates in a celebratory, non-competitive 5K, with the ultimate goal of empowering girls to recognize their inner strength and activate their limitless potential.

This transformative program continues to make a powerful impact at Fair Oaks Ranch Elementary School, where the chapter has been going strong for four years. Held each fall, the program allows students to fully concentrate on STAAR testing in the spring while still benefiting from months of confidence-building experiences earlier in the school year.

This year, twenty dedicated girls trained from August through November, preparing for their culminating 5K on November 16th. Due to strong participation, four mentor teachers guided the team: Denise Bakkar (2nd grade), Kristin Neal (Kindergarten), Kimberly Hernandez (Life Skills), and Sarah Borgerding (Kindergarten). Their leadership created a supportive environment where every girl felt encouraged, valued, and empowered.

Each practice combines physical training with meaningful lessons on teamwork, confidence, goal setting, and positive decision-making. Sessions ended with the girls giving their all as they trained for the 5K, building endurance while learning that true strength comes from perseverance and self-belief. The program supports girls as they transition toward middle school, reminding them that they are perfect just the way they are.

Community service is an important part of the experience. For three years, participants proudly washed patrol cars for the Fair Oaks Ranch Police Department as a gesture of appreciation. This year, they organized a canned food drive that helped 220 families through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul food bank. In addition, the Rotary Club of Fair Oaks Ranch generously donated $1,000 to support the club and its mission.

The Fair Oaks Ranch Elementary team truly CRUSHED their 5K — every girl finished in under 50 minutes. Isabella placed 1st in her age category, Delaney earned 1st in her age group, and Jolie placed 3rd. Most importantly, every girl showed heart, grit, and joy. We are beyond proud of each and every one of them!