We have begun our Mentoring program for 2009-2010 School Year. We mentor at Theron Jones. So far 9 people have agreed to spend time with students once a week in 30 minutes sessions. Some of us have two students and spend an hour a week. TISD has developed a new philosophy: Kids of Hope instead of Kids at Risk. Mentoring is not just tutoring students but approaching the program by letting children know the world cares / we care about them.
Kids of Hope is composed of 4 Aces. Every adult holds 4 aces. Listed below are the Aces and there meaning in this program:
• Ace of Hearts – An Anchor. Parents or responsible adult raising a child
• Ace of Clubs – Other caring adults who can be a positive person in the child’s life
• Ace of Spades – High expectations – The sky is the limit. Reach for the stars. That we believe in them more than they have believed in themselves – We are treasure hunters helping them find successes
• Ace of Diamonds – opportunities to Succeed – Success breeds success. The four corners of the diamond are ways to feel successful:
1. belonging to something positive
2. feeling useful
3. feeling competent
4. feeling empowered
We need to let children know that winning may not happen every day, but success can happen in one of the above areas daily.
I pray that God will touch your hearts and if you have 30 minutes a week to spare you will join the mentoring program.
Grace and Peace
Margy Chaufty
