Academic Edge

Girl Scouts Academic Edge

Academic Edge is a free program designed for girls in grades K–6 who may face challenges joining a traditional troop. Led by a trained Academic Edge Coordinator, the program delivers a full Girl Scout experience, from the Promise and Law to badge activities and the Friendship Circle, through engaging, standards-aligned lessons. In partnership with schools and community organizations, Academic Edge provides a safe, inclusive space where girls build courage, confidence, and character while exploring STEM, the outdoors, entrepreneurship, and life skills. With flexible scheduling and all supplies provided, Academic Edge helps every girl discover her potential.

If you are interested in our Academic Edge program, please fill out this form. We will be in touch soon!

Academic Edge Cookie Resources

Is your girl participating in the Girl Scout Cookie Program through their involvement in Academic Edge?

Click here to access useful resources related to the program near the bottom of this page.

Who - Girls in Grades K-6 and Their Families toggle arrow

Our priority is to educate students and strive to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and social-emotional awareness to succeed and who will become active, engaged citizens in an ever-changing world.

By leading and learning in an all-girl environment with Girl Scouts, girls have the opportunity to:

Challenge their fears
Problem solve
Work collaboratively

All of this occurs while understanding how to:

Manage their emotions
Establish positive relationships
Gain a sense of belonging

Girl Scouts teaches girls the skills that they will need today and through their entire academic journey - into college and onto a rewarding career.

Family Engagement

It takes a village! Engaging families in Academic Edge provides the opportunity for girls' loved ones to be involved which leads to a more sustainable Girl Scout experience. Families will be invited to participate in events such as game nights, field trips, and camp picnics.

What - Components of the Girl Scouts Academic Edge Program toggle arrow

What Academic Edge provides to schools and programs:

An Enthusiastic Academic Edge Coordinator
All Program Supplies
Girl Scouts Badge-Focused Curriculum
Flexible Program Schedules w/most programs meeting weekly from September through April
Before, During, or After school programs
Free Girl Scout membership to participating girls

What Program Partner/School provides:

Site Contact
Program Space in the building
Promotion of the program
Support in identifying an Academic Edge program assistant
Invitations to school-organized community activities

When - During the School Year toggle arrow

Academic Edge sessions run weekly from September through April.

Where - Targeted Locations toggle arrow

We are currently in the following targeted school districts:

Central Dauphin School District
Middletown Area School District
School District of Lancaster
School District of the City of York
Scranton School District
South Williamsport Area School District
West Shore School District
Wilkes-Barre Area School District
Williamsport Area School District

Why - Girl Power! toggle arrow

The K-6 curriculum is based on more than just academics. The program teaches girls to be leaders, problem solvers, and to work collaboratively. It is built with room for adaptation based on girls' interests.

It is designed to deliver the 5 outcomes of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience:

Sense of self
Positive values
Challenge seeking
Healthy relationships
Community problem solving

As active members of your community and school, girls will be better prepared for life’s challenges.

How - How is Academic Edge Different from a Traditional Troop? toggle arrow

Girls can participate through their school or community partner, limiting additional time and travel for parents.
This is a grant-funded program, including supplies at no cost to parents.
Girls focus on Girl Scout badges based on lesson plans with built-in activities focusing on GSLE (Girl Scout Leadership Experience) rather than just fun patches and available local programs.
Focus on the issues in their current environment. At school - confidence, speaking up for themselves, and etiquette. In the community - giving back, rising to meet new challenges, speaking up for others.
Provides a sense of belonging, opportunities for personal growth, and participation with peers.

Academic Edge Cookie Resources toggle arrow

Be a Part of our Academic Edge Team

Make a difference in the classroom. As part of the Academic Edge team, you’ll help bring engaging, confidence-building experiences to girls. If you’re passionate about inspiring the next generation, we’d love to have you on board. Apply for one of our Outreach Program Coordinator positions today and make your impact today.