Jola Strayhorn: Pioneering Social Emotional Learning with 'Level Up Lil' Peeps!'

December 28, 2023

In a remarkable display of leadership and innovation, Jola Strayhorn, a dedicated member of the Girl Scouts Heart Of New Jersey, has successfully earned her Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest achievement a Girl Scout can attain. Her project, titled "Level Up Lil' Peeps!", is an inspirational video designed to address significant challenges in Social Emotional Learning and behavior among Kindergarten students.

Jola's project comes at a critical time. Recognizing the educational setbacks caused by the pandemic, she identified that many young learners are 1-2 years behind in social skills due to the lack of classroom experience. "Level Up Lil' Peeps!" is a creative response to this challenge, offering a fun and engaging way to teach incoming Kindergarten students the essential "school etiquette" they missed.

Jola's journey in the Girl Scouts has been a source of inspiration and support for her. She reflects on the strength she draws from being part of a community of like-minded girls who are committed to making a difference. This sense of belonging has fueled her passion for reaching high goals and encouraging others to join the Girl Scouts.

What makes Jola's project particularly outstanding is its sustainability and potential for wide impact. Holy Savior Academy has been granted the rights to use "Level Up Lil' Peeps!" annually for new Kindergarten students. Moreover, its availability on YouTube extends its reach beyond local communities, offering valuable resources to students and educators across different states and organizations.

Jola Strayhorn's Gold Award project is not just a testament to her dedication and creativity; it's a beacon of hope and guidance for young learners navigating the complexities of social and educational environments in a post-pandemic world. Her work exemplifies the true spirit of the Girl Scout Gold Award - creating sustainable solutions that make a lasting difference.

Congratulations to Jola on this remarkable achievement! Her project is a shining example of how Girl Scouts are making the world a better place, one Gold Award at a time.