West Side Elementary School in California is changing the world, one phone call at a time.
In these difficult times, elementary students are offering inspiration to the entire world. The title of the project is "PEPTOC." It is a hotline for adults to call and receive advice from elementary students.
PEPTOC is the idea of two teachers, Asherah Weiss and Jessica Martin. They thought that adult friends and family who felt mad, nervous, frustrated, or those who might need encouragement might enjoy hearing some children's voices giving them words of kid-wisdom. A cute idea turned into a viral sensation, as the hotline is now receiving about 9000 phone calls per hour.
It seems that adults have always taken care of children, and these two teachers looked at a chance to have children help to take care of adults. What a wonderful project for the kids and the callers! The kids love sharing their bits of wisdom and being recorded. They know their impact is being felt, and they have pride in their contributions. Students and teachers are learning about the importance of working together and how one's work can benefit others. This is truly a great project on so many levels.
I just called the hotline at 707-998-8410. I stayed on the line and chose all three options, and received lots of confirming and uplifting messages. I enjoyed option 3 - advice from kindergarteners - who shouted, "You can do it! Don't give up!" Such sweet little voices of encouragement.
I love this idea, and I am putting this number in my phone directory. I also think Steve Hartman has the very best job in the nation, as he gets to share so many happy stories.
Sometimes, adults just need to hear little voices of encouragement. Call the number!
To know more about this story, please click on the link below:
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/kindergarten-pep-talk-hotline-peptoc-helpline-steve-hartman/
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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