G.O. Beyond Your Wildest Dreams

 After years of growth and learning, the 17 students of 8G stand proudly at the top of the TA Girls’ Division, ready to complete their journey and take their next steps into high school. But before they move on, they have one extraordinary final year ahead. They’ll tackle challenging academics and embrace new opportunities to grow independently. As role models, they play a key role in infusing the Girls’ Division with excitement and ruach. At the heart of this leadership is their much-anticipated privilege: running G.O.

G.O. has been a defining feature of Jewish girls’ schools across the U.S. for decades. But what does G.O. actually stand for—Girls’ Organization? General Organization? Even G.O. Advisor Mrs. Shirah Sternfield admits that the acronym’s origins may be lost to time. At TA, though, G.O. doesn’t need a formal definition. Students know it means FUN! Faculty see it as a platform for building leadership and teamwork skills. And G.O. leaders understand it’s about stepping up, taking responsibility, and creating lasting memories.

The G.O.’s mission is to build school spirit and create unforgettable experiences for their peers. They kicked off the year with their theme, “G.O. Beyond Your Wildest Dreams,” introducing it through an original song, dance, and exciting branded giveaways. Even the youngest first graders went home humming the catchy tune. Throughout the year, they organize Rosh Chodesh events that foster connections across grades and deepen students’ appreciation for Yomim Tovim. They’re also responsible for year-long fundraising efforts to support their 8th grade trip and yearbook.

Each month, a small group of 8th-graders are appointed as “G.O. Heads,” giving them the chance to take the lead in planning, delegating, and managing the month’s activities. For example, during Kislev, Malka Zyto and Etty Wilhelm oversaw the action-packed Chanukah Girls’ Night Out, with every 8th grader playing a role in its success. Middle schoolers enjoyed a delicious pasta bar supper before exploring classrooms transformed into immersive, Chanukah-themed escape room experiences. After solving challenges and riddles, students reunited for dessert, sharing laughs and stories from the creative night. The evening ended on a high note with a hilarious game of “Let’s Make a Deal!”

Eighth-grader Sarala Gelernter has experienced this firsthand and loves seeing how G.O. activities build bonds across grade levels. On a recent trip to a roller rink, she was touched to see the older girls looking out for the younger ones, quick to lend a steady hand. For Sarala, these moments of camaraderie make G.O. truly special and fuel her excitement for the months ahead. She can’t wait for Purim, when the festivities will “run wild” with creativity and fun as the G.O. team plans their most imaginative events yet.

The final G.O. tradition of the year is the school-wide BBQ. Held during the last week of school, the BBQ marks the close of one chapter and the start of a new one. With the 8th grade having already graduated, the event is organized by the 7th grade class. This symbolic “passing of the baton” allows the next G.O. to carry on the 43-year legacy of leadership, creativity, and friendship; adding their own moments to the school’s cherished traditions. ☐