Big Brothers Big Sisters launches new group mentorship program at JCPS middle school

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana is adding more group mentoring for sixth graders.

The program launched Jan. 23 as 28 students have enrolled in the program. It will go until the end of the year.

Students at Hudson Middle School had their third group session on Monday, but they're already making an impact.

"Live your life to the fullest, that's what you should do," said Harold Thompson, a sixth grader.

Thompson is one of more than 20 boys who meet every other Monday with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Girls meet on Tuesdays.

The group sessions are a new concept that allows students to meet in a group mentoring setting. Then, they break off into smaller groups to talk about things like conflict resolution, bullying, or anything else that comes to mind.

Big Brothers Big Sisters said this new model, versus one-on-one mentoring, gives students an opportunity to feed off of one another. Sometimes, when one person speaks up, more will follow.

After three sessions, they are already making a difference in the lives of these students. The principal at Hudson Middle School said the students can be vulnerable in a safe setting and introduces them to role models, putting them on a path for success.

"They have deep connections with adults where they feel that they can express themselves, where they have a connection not just with our school, but to our school community and to the community at large," said Principal Dr. Jeronda Majors.

The hope is that the new model goes so well they can expand it to other schools and organizations across the city.

Hudson Middle School is the first middle school in Jefferson County Public Schools to have the new program. The group mentoring program is facilitated by Black Male EDquity Network with the support of Big Brothers Big Sisters mentors. The mentors help students identify their strengths, take pride in their self-identity and help them realize their potential. They hope to expand the program once they see success at Hudson.

The community can get involved, too. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana is in need of mentors. For information about how to sign up, or to make a donation, click here.

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