Denise Brown is the executive director of the nonprofit program designed for girls ages 16 and older who are either failing school or have dropped out. Called "Intense Mentoring", the program pairs young women with mentors who help them improve their academic performance.

"The girls are required to re-enroll in school. Mentors stay in touch with them through weekly phone calls, e-mail or instant messages... The mentors and students meet twice a month to hear speakers discuss domestic violence, birth control, crime prevention and other topics."

One student, Chanise Turner, had a miscarriage at 17 and felt she had nothing to live for. Brown connected her to mentor Marie Kalis and Turner is now enrolled in an alternative high school and plans to attend law school after she graduates.

Boarding schools for girls can also offer ways for troubled girls to get back on track emotionally and academically.

Labels: girls, mentoring, schools