Moving Forward

Well, I have survived two days at KIPP DuBois Collegiate Academy and thus far I believe that my mission to help get these kids to the next level is definitely attainable. Before I go any further I will like to clarify that "survived" is a bit of an over exaggeration because it definitely wasn't bad at all. Although, I did meet some interesting characters for the most part I think all they need is a push and a little direction.  In some cases some kids may need a little stronger push than others but, that is nothing outside of my scope of practice.  For those of you interested in what I have been doing in these two days, let me explain.  I have been shadowing the Assistant Principal in her work as the head of discipline.  By doing this I am able to observe how the school handles children that have discipline issues.  I am trying to use this week to help shape my leadership program based on where the kids are academically, intellectually, and emotionally while also incorporating their maturity level.  The focus of the program is to help these students take personal responsibility for the education and futures.  I would like your input as to what you think would be helpful and influential in accomplishing these tasks.  For example what topics should be discussed or what activities can be done to help drive home the importance of self-leadership and accountability in teens. Seriously, I really would like your feedback so shoot me an email, comment on Facebook, tweet me, or call me. I desperately would like to know what you think and if there has something you've done in the past that has worked because I know I don't have all the answers. I appreciate all of your support in this new endeavor. Don't forget to subscribe to my blog, follow us on twitter and like us on Facebook so that you can be updated on the progress we are making.

#BeTheChangeYouWantToSee

Leadership in small doses

Everyone can be a leader just take the time to recognize the small moments.

 

It takes all of us

President Obama put out the challenge to each and everyone of us to support our children and fight for the future of Amercica by supporting our youth in their academics. Graduation rates in our urban communities are too low and we have the opportunity to reduce that number by simply taking the initiative to play an active role in the lives of these kids.  You can help this cause through supporting a local mentoring or tutoring program like "Reaching Out 2 U" (shameless plug) or helping a child with their homework. What I am simply say is that every little bit helps. So....DO SOMETHING!

 

We are in business

I would like to first thank all those who have silently and vocally supported me in seeing the mission of Reaching Out 2 U come to fruition. Beginning February 27, 2012 I will begin my mentoring and tutoring program at KIPP Dubois Collegiate Academy located on 1209 Vine St. in Center City Philadelphia. KIPP Dubois has opened up their doors to me and I am so grateful for the opportunity to make an impact in the lives of these students. This is just the beginning and we are looking and expecting greater things in the future. I look forward to keeping you updated on the progress we are making as the program continues to grow and flourish.

"It's Cool To Be A Leader"

Leadership is a skill that some would say is either innate or sometthing that can be developed over a time. I would say it is a bit of both. To fully realize this in our children it would be beneficial to identify the students that have this potential and show them how to develop this in them. What should not be done is dismiss a kid because he or she may exhibit behavior that does not scream leader. With some kids you may have to dig a little deeper. Take a look at the article below and see what one educator is doing to encourage kids to develop those leadership abilities.

http://www.philly.com/philly/insights/in_education/20111226_Empowering_students

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