When Florence Nasoore was 12 years old, she wanted to continue going to school. But for many girls in rural Kenya, school is not an option. Families are more likely to spend money on educating boys than girls.

A group called Beads for Education helped Florence follow her dream. Americans Debby Rooney and Lisa Stevens started the group. It matches girls with sponsors who help pay for school.

This January, Beads opened a new high school. "It's the realization of a dream to provide our girls with the best education possible," Stevens told TFK. Rooney was there to dedicate the school on January 12.

On a 1991 visit to Kenya, Rooney learned about women who were making and selling beaded crafts to help send their daughters to school. Two years later, Rooney started Beads and began selling the crafts in the U.S. Stevens joined the project soon after.

Beads has helped build libraries and schools. The group also helps train teachers.

The new high school's name in Swahili is Tembea, which means "to walk." Florence is walking toward a bright future. She graduated from college in 2010 and is now a teacher. "She is an example of the potential for all girls in Kenya," says Stevens.

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