On July 25, Girl Scouts of the USA introduced 23 new badges in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and the outdoors—our largest programming rollout in almost a decade!
Although Girl Scouts has had STEM-related badges since 1913 (with the introduction of the Electrician and Flyer badges), through these new programs, Girl Scouts have even more opportunities to learn skills and prepare them to empower themselves with the experiences they need to succeed in life. They’ll be able to design robots and racecars, go on environmentally conscious camping trips, create algorithms, collect data in the great outdoors, try their hand at engineering, and so much more. And the best part? These new badges are girl-tested and girl-approved!
The new Girl Scout programming builds girls’ skills and encourages their interest in STEM and environmental conservation from an early age—areas girls are not typically encouraged to explore outside Girl Scouting—increasing their confidence in an all-girl, girl-led environment where they feel comfortable to try new things, take appropriate risks, and learn from failure.
Here at Girl Scouts River Valleys, we’re all about giving girls the opportunity to explore STEM and the outdoors. This week, Girl Scouts are learning to code at Robotics Camp, and they’re welding, drilling, and designing at Dunwoody College through our Rosie’s Girls camp. We’re looking forward to lots of skill-building events this summer and fall.
Preparing girls for leadership roles is a priority, and there’s never been a better time to stand up with girls. Learn more in GSUSA’s blog post.