River City students prepare for regional 5K through Girls on the Run program

More than 100 students across four Northern Kentucky River City school districts are building confidence, teamwork and leadership skills through Girls on the Run, a program that continues to grow in impact across the region.

Participating districts include Covington Independent Public Schools, Ludlow Independent Schools, Dayton Independent Schools and Bellevue Independent Schools. Together, the districts are engaging students in a curriculum that blends physical activity with social and emotional learning.

The program culminates in the Greater Cincinnati Girls on the Run 5K on May 9 at Smale Park, where participants will celebrate their progress with others from across the region.

In Covington Independent Public Schools, participation has expanded significantly in just four years. What began as a single-site program serving eight students has grown to more than 90 participants across all elementary schools and the district’s middle school.

“Our coaches consistently see girls grow in confidence and determination as they take on new challenges,” said Ashley McClure, Director of Community & Family Engagement at Covington Independent School District. “What makes Girls on the Run special is not just the curriculum, but the way it helps girls believe in themselves. In Covington, we see students step outside their comfort zones, support one another and grow into more confident individuals.”

Coaches say the impact extends far beyond running. Students develop skills in empathy, conflict resolution and goal setting, while also forming meaningful friendships and increasing engagement in school.

At Ludlow Independent Schools, where the program has been in place for 14 years, coaches have seen lasting results.

“Over the course of the program, I have seen girls create connections with others they may not have otherwise,” said coach Taylor Baioni. “Many of our participants don’t start as runners, but by the end, they discover a love for running and confidence in their ability to do hard things.”

Teams typically meet twice per week over an eight- to 10-week season, combining interactive lessons with physical activity. Sessions focus on building self-esteem and fostering a sense of belonging.

At Dayton Independent Schools, the program has been a consistent presence for more than a decade. According to coach Amanda Minser, the district is in its approximately 14th season of participation. “We’ve had so many different girls and staff involved over the years, and it is just amazing to watch the growth,” Minser said.

At Bellevue Independent Schools, the program was reintroduced in fall 2025 after a brief hiatus and is already making an impact. Coaches report strong participation across two seasons, with students building confidence and taking on new leadership roles.

“We had one student who started the season very shy and reluctant to share,” Tiffany Hicks, Bellevue’s GOTR coach said. “By the end of the program, she was leading our community service project.”

Teams typically meet twice per week over an eight- to 10-week season, combining interactive lessons with physical activity. Sessions focus on building self-esteem and fostering a sense of belonging.

Nationally, Girls on the Run reports that more than 90% of participants experience increased confidence and improved peer relationships, outcomes local educators say they see reflected in their own students.

The initiative has also drawn strong community support, with volunteers, families and school staff participating in practices and events. Many join students for practice runs and the culminating 5K.

Across the River City districts, leaders say programs like Girls on the Run reflect a broader commitment to supporting the whole child through strong community schools, connecting students not only to academics, but also to opportunities that build confidence and lifelong skills.

When asked how the community could help, Hicks added, “Please consider supporting GOTR through a donation or running in the 5K race. Even the smallest amount goes a long way for our girls.”