3 Mar 2011
DALLAS—Dallas ISD students were encouraged to speak out about what educators, parents and community leaders can do to help them succeed in school and graduate.
The student speak out took place Saturday, February 26. The young men were challenged to bring their "A" game, put their best effort into getting an education and take responsibility for their lives.
Featured guest speaker Rickie Rush, pastor of the Inspiring Body of Christ, told the young men, "We cannot fail without our consent, and we cannot succeed without our participation."
Nearly 500 young men from Dallas ISD middle and high schools participated in the event Reflections of An Inner City Male. Students were joined by Dallas ISD advocates, who serve as mentors at their campuses.
Students spoke about needing encouragement from educators and parents, help developing good study habits, more positive role models, guidance on reducing and dealing with stress, help with teachers who assume they know what each student needs and many more topics.
The speak out concluded with students being offered an opportunity to sign an agreement committing to improve their character, conduct and conversation. Students were directed to present the agreement cards to one of their teachers who will be expected to guide that student as he tries to make academic improvements.
Nakia Douglas, principal of the new Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy opening in August 2011, also encouraged the young men.
"I've been where you are. Not having teachers who encourage you or believe in you—that was me," said Douglas. "Not having a father in the home—that was me. If it were not for my mother who had high expectations of me and my sister and worked to provide us with positive experiences and exposure, I would not be where I am today. I am proof that your life can be different."
Rush encouraged the district to bring the students together again in six weeks to assess their progress.
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