I really enjoy sharing great ideas and good news stories that benefit people. Even better, I like the idea of sharing something that could be easily emulated, benefitting even more folks. I saw such a story earlier this week on the TODAY Show.
In New York City, Chief Juanita Holmes came up with an idea for a program called GIRLS TALK. She came up with the idea when she was working her beat late in the wee hours, and young girls would be out on the street. She believes that helping to promote public safety is just as important as fighting crime. What began as just a few small meetings between local girls and a few female police officers has turned into a positive movement across the entire city. In this program, teenage girls are assigned a policewoman mentor, and the results so far in the four years of the program are wonderful.
One mentee said that her officer friend has always welcomed her with open arms. She has learned how to be a better listener, to share stories, and to trust another person. One young girl in the program has decided to complete her application to join the police force. One mentee was afraid the first time she met her officer friend, but she has no more fear. This program has changed the feeling of fear to feelings of respect and caring.
A program like this requires something more than money - it requires a personal investment of time, caring, and commitment. Both the police and the girls are winners, in giving and receiving.
This program could easily be emulated across other cities and communities in the United States.
To see the video about this remarkable story about GIRLS TALK, please click on the link below.
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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