Iroquois High School students received a scholarship based on their completion of the Teens As Teachers program of the South Dakota Youth Foundation, Inc.
Receiving scholarships are Kali Burma, Chenoa Harris, Emma Eckmann, Madi Burma, and Lorna Bult.
As Teen Teachers, these students taught local elementary students character development lessons. Teen Teachers attended training last fall in curriculum, lesson planning, and working with elementary students. As teen mentors and teachers, they taught skills and habits to help young students grow into people of character. They also served as strong role models demonstrating positive behaviors.
Teen Teachers themselves gain leadership skills and experience in teaching. Teens as Teacher has helped me grow as a leader by showing me that kindness and patience are important virtues,said Chenoa Harris. Some kids dont experience kindness in their everyday home life, so its important to show them that when the opportunity presents itself.
For Emma Eckmann, her advice to future participants is simple: Just do it. It looks intimidating at first, but the representatives are very willing to help with anything. And lastly, work hard and be a good teammate.
Madi Burmareflected on the impact of the program both personally and professionally: It has given me the opportunity and resources to grow and develop into a leader and role model,she said. One lesson that especially stuck with her was Polished Stones: It helps me to remember that no one is perfect.
Lorna Bultadded, It gave me experience working with younger kids and its even helped me handle my sister better.
Adviser Mrs. Vicki Dantshared, I am proud of all the growth of my Teen Teachers. The growth in confidence and willingness to take the lead in projects is especially noticeable.
The South Dakota Youth Foundation, Inc. is the only organization in which all of its programs are delivered to younger students through a Teen Teacher network. Trained Teen Teachers are proven effective in teaching positive messages. According to Carol Birgen, Program Leader, Elementary students see Teen Teachers as role models and mentors. Teens speak the right language, making education more effective.
Cost of student and school participation in the program and their scholarships is underwritten by the South Dakota Youth Foundation, Inc. and its donors.
To learn more about Teens As Teachers or to donate, visit sdyouthfoundation.orgor email [email protected].
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