E.L. Haynes is a place that gives students a space to grow, learn, and become confident in their own skin. It becomes even more important to create space for members of our community to feel belonging and safety during periods of uncertainty and anxiety. One organization at Haynes that has provided this space for young girl-identifying students and staff is Crowned, founded in 2016 by high school special education teacher Ms. Julelah Wallace.
“I was inspired by my mother who was an etiquette teacher for debutante balls and other events,” Ms. Wallace said. “She had me in those sorts of classes to help me develop into the lady I am today. But at Haynes, I thought that there were not many opportunities for young ladies to get one-on-one mentorship from other women.”
The high school’s Graduate Profile aims to develop student leaders with agency; in other words, students should be able to create achievable goals, identify the steps to accomplish them, and use their resources to reach their goals. Since its inception, Crowned has been one place at Haynes that female students establish deep bonds with their fellow Crowned “sisters,” a title given to both students and adults to emphasize the equality of all members of the group.
Crowned celebrates sisterhood and encourages accountability, honesty, and support for all members. In addition, the club has hosted workshops on topics like impulse control and self-advocacy, discussed hygiene with an OB/GYN, and learned how to double-dutch.
12th grader Crystal H. joined the group in her junior year because a friend had been a member. But the group’s vibe appealed to Crystal. “There was respectful conversation, and it was filled with laughter,” she said. “It was genuinely the best hour after a stressful school day that you could ask for.”
“I’ve gotten so much closer to Ms. Wallace, I love her with all my heart,” said sophomore Morgan A., who joined Crowned this year. “I love that she invited me to the group, and I feel like I’ve gained so many more friends and relationships through Crowned.”
“I’ve gained so many more friends and relationships through Crowned.”
Morgan A., 10th Grade
During COVID, the stress was at an all-time high. But Ms. Wallace and the Crowned sisters kept up their sessions over Zoom, even as they worried about dwindling participation. “There were only ten girls active in the meetings,” Ms. Wallace said. “But mothers would sit in with their daughters to keep them motivated, and our Zoom became a place that girls looked forward to, creating a sense of community.”
Crowned has also pushed students out of their comfort zones. Throughout the years, Crowned has hosted a number of different events for its members. In its first years, the club traveled to New York City to see a Broadway show and spend the night in a hotel. “Some of the girls had hardly left Northwest DC in their lives,” Ms. Wallace said. “When we got to Times Square, surrounded by all the people and lights, it was a special moment for all of us.”
Crowned members spoke about different activities that keep them coming back. Crystal loves the annual Crowned Ceremony, when each member is honored and promoted to the next level of the club with a special keepsake – sometimes a crown, a necklace, a bracelet, or a plaque commemorates each year that students commit to Crowned.
“It’s a moment for everybody to be celebrated, not just one person,” said Crystal. “And it recognizes participation, having fun in the group, and growing through high school.”
Morgan loves the tea parties. “It’s so fun to dress up and get all fashionable,” she said. “The middle school and elementary school Crowned groups come down to drink tea, eat snacks, and reflect over the year.”
The idea of sisterhood runs deep, and has inspired members to think about their futures. “You have this understanding that if you need help, you can go to your sister for help, and you won’t be judged and things will be kept confidential,” said Crystal. “But you won’t get anywhere without self-advocacy. If your job is tearing you down, advocate for yourself and take a break.”
“You have this understanding that if you need help, you can go to your sister for help, and you won’t be judged and things will be kept confidential.”
Crystal H., 12th Grade
With elementary and middle school chapters of Crowned, Ms. Wallace and the other adults in Crowned plans to host more cross-campus events and community service opportunities. But the mission of Crowned remains.
“One year, a student’s mother approached me and said, ‘I wish I had this as a young girl. I didn’t have anyone to help me as I was growing and maturing as a young woman,’” Ms. Wallace said. “I’ve always had that voice in my head from that parent, something that reassured me that starting Crowned was the right move.”