Every school has students who are uninterested in learning and at risk for dropping out. In today's world, the chance to succeed is largely influenced by the education one has acquired, so if a student drops out, the prospects for success are bleak. Lots of high schools work with students, creating alternative high schools, offering a school and work program, and many other programs to help keep kids in school. I saw a segment on television about a program that is making a huge difference in the lives of people who want to finish their high school education requirements and graduate. The program is called PROJECT SUCCEED, located in Pittsburgh, PA.
Joel Vanucci was hired by the Keystone Oaks School District as Dean of Students over 35 years ago. He observed that many students were in danger of dropping out, and spoke to his principal about an idea to help kids to get those last few credits or to revisit school and achieve the diploma. This year was the 35 years of PROJECT SUCCEED, and Joe and his staff have helped 4,000 students to graduate in those 35 years. Of those students, 72% moved on to post secondary education, in colleges, community college, trade and technical schools, and in the armed forces.
Students in the program this year graduated last Thursday, and their ages vary from 18-45. They attend an evening school at Keystone oaks HS, and the number of classes and hours they must spend depends on what requirements they need for graduation. The program is open to anyone in western Pennsylvania.
Joel Vanucci is making a huge difference in the lives of others. His dedication to his students is a beautiful thing to see. What is Joe's best advice at graduation? "Don't let anyone tell you that you can't succeed" and "Work hard - you will be successful."
This program is one that could be incorporated into many school districts. Often, students who dropped out are sorry, and they have nowhere to turn. I would like to see other schools across the country follow this model of success.
To see an interview with Joel Vanucci, Executive Director of PROJECT SUCCEED, please click on the link below.
https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/sunday-spotlight/
The program saw it's 3000th graduate 5 years ago. Below is the link to an informative article about PROJECT SUCCEED.
Visit Dede's web page for complete details on her award-winning book, STUDENT TEACHING: THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM A MASTER TEACHER. Many colleges have made the book required reading. Signed copies are available www.dederittman.com Dede is also a national speaker on The Three C's for Classroom success: Confidence, communication, and Creativity; Avoiding Teacher burnout; and many other inspirational topics.
I LOVE writing. And I love writing children's books- my newest passion. Although it will be a ton of work, I am looking forward to selling my books. Since I was a secondary teacher, I know that I have much to learn about elementary students, and I will have to follow my own advice and be my genuine self. However, I also know that I am passionate about helping kids who have to wear glasses, and that GRADY GETS GLASSES sends a positive message. I am willing to work hard and do all the things that also made me a successful teacher for 37
Teacher friends- let me know if you want me to read GRADY GETS GLASSES at your school. I am willing to come in to discuss the creative writing process, why writing is important, and personal fulfillment through writing, along with reading my book. I would appreciate the exposure, and I would make signed copies available for purchase in your classrooms following the reading. Please email me at dederittman@gmail.com The website www.gradygetsglasses.com now has plush Grady bunnies for sale!
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