Mentoring Students: A DBHS Way of Life
At Deerfield Beach High School, being a successful student involves much more than just attending academic classes. The term for students to become successful and develop a healthy sense of self-esteem through open lines of communication with school administration and teachers is called “personalization”.
This year, Jon Marlow, Principal, his complete assistant principal staff plus fifty DBHS teachers became mentors to students who needed that extra incentive and motivational energy. Mr. Marlow eventually took on the responsibility of mentoring ten students this year himself.
George Vega, DBHS assistant principal, who has been in education for 41 years, said one of the most exciting aspects about being a mentor was “that the kids were ecstatic to deal with an assistant principal on such a positive note”.
Vega said he loves to have lunch with the kids when possible and commented “personalization is the key to really reaching a student”.
Vega also cites that “this is not just a trend or new strategy for DBHS. “As a matter of fact , “this effort for personalization has been a key focus for reaching students in need of academic or personal help at DBHS for years”. Vega also pointed out that personalization is now an accepted practice that “is a key to national high school reform and improvement.”
Personalization is something all DBHS teachers strive for with their students. It is not just for the staff members mentioned above As Mr. Vega commented…”this is what teaching and education should really be all about.”
“Take Stock in Children” and “The Youth Mentoring Program “ are two programs coordinated by DBHS 9th grade counselor Liz Rogers. This is a county-wide effort that involves local community leaders in business and industry to help Broward students starting in their middle school years throughout high school.
Ms. Rogers commented “students who complete the Take Stock in Children program are even eligible for scholarships help after graduation from high school.”
There are so many opportunities Broward County Schools offer to parents and the community to get involved. To see more info on these programs go to:
www.getinvolvedineducation.com
Charles Siemons, DBHS Web Correspondent
