News, Views, and Commentary on Creative Youth Empowerment and Parental Support

Join me as I recount an unforgettable evening at Roosevelt High School auditorium. It was one which left me feeling further inspired and invigorated as a proponent of youth empowerment. The end-of-year awards ceremony was not just a formal occasion, it was a celebration of hard work, dedication, and community spirit. I felt much joy as a participant in the celebration of students on their individual journeys to greatness, surrounded by parents, staff, and a supportive community, including Deputy Supervisor Dorothy Goosby and Dr. Emily Moore.

While I waited for my turn at the podium to present the Creative Empowerment Arts Contest scholarship award to our 12th grade winner, I noticed the results of meticulous coordination and effort put forth by the student volunteers and staff.

This not only made the evening unforgettable, it also was a demonstration of Dr. Deborah Wortham’s effective leadership. Under her guidance, the school is now off the State Education Department’s “needs improvement” list! I could see how the influence of Dr. Wortham and her team was apparent in both the academic success and personal development of the students. It was evident in the precision with which they executed their tasks at te registration table, and the outstanding job the student emcee did in hosting the event…to name a few.

I would like to acknowledge the help and willingness to accommodate my event-related requests by expressing a heartfelt gratitude to Administrative Assistant Ms. Diane Battle and School Guidance Counselor Ms. Messina for their respective interactions with me ahead of the event. If it were not for the kindness of a team member at the event, this blog post would have lacked the vibrancy that is now present. I thank her for the enthusiastic response to my request to use my device to record me in the process of making the presentation to Shania Dawson. The same goes for the photographer who was kind enough to take the pictures of the family and artwork in the lobby.

Any assumption that I was in a welcoming environment will be right. For that would explain why I proudly observed the grace and humility with which the award recipients approached the stage. It was a demonstration of character in light of academic accomplishment! I characterized that as an, “I thank you, but all I did was use the resources available to me.” moment. To be completely transparent, I have no recollection of ever having clapped so enthusiastically for people I had never met before. That is how connected I felt!

The impressive recognition event of our Roosevelt High School leaders of tomorrow was not without some salient lessons. Here are some key aspects we can add to our growing list to engender community enrichment and youth empowerment.

1. Recognizing and acknowledging outstanding leadership. Leadership is not just about holding a title or position, but about taking initiative and making a positive impact in our communities.
2. Embracing the elements of humanity in all that we do. Collaboration and teamwork are essential in achieving our goals and creating a better future for all.
3. Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of our youth. This helps to inspire and motivate them to continue making a difference.
4. Acknowledging diversity and inclusion in our communities to foster creativity, innovation, and a sense of belonging for all individuals.
5. Celebrating and honoring our elders who have paved the way for us and preserving the legacy of our loved ones. 
6. Mentorship and support from others play a crucial role in helping young leaders develop their skills and reach their full potential.

Besides this list, is the lesson which Shania Dawson teaches us about compassion through her winning creative expression. Her reflection emanates from the close contact which she had with fruits as a youngster who accompanied her mother and grandmother whenever they volunteered their time at a food pantry. It reads in part: “Similar to people, the outside of fruit does not always depict what is hiding underneath! This is a life lesson that I wish I had learned earlier on in life, and it is for this reason I hope to convey my message to young school-aged children.” A profound insight into Shania Dawson’s Creative Expression on compassion which, from the rousing reaction and applause, resonated with the audience, particularly after I assured her I would never look at a fruit the same way again! 

As we celebrate the achievements of our children, and affirm the adults in their lives at home, school and community, let us remember to embrace the diversity and depth within each individual we encounter, and search for that common thread which can keep us connected in a purposeful manner. I hope that by sharing the essence of this memorable occasion through words and visuals; I have honored the healthy spirit of community, achievement, and personal growth that defines our collective journey through a meaningful life.

I ask that we continue to uplift and inspire one another and encourage family and friends to avail themselves of the variety of programs in place to engender academic and personal development in our children.

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Editor: FounderatYourTime4 – Madona Cole-Lacy