We expected to share the value of public speaking skills in communicating day-to-day. We expected to motivate students to push themselves past their comfort zones to ignite real learning and growth. We expected to discuss the importance of balanced nutrition and how healthy eating habits go hand-in-hand with improved focus and maximized learning opportunities. We expected participants to recruit family and friends to attend the workshops since they saw value in the academic and mindfulness we shared. We expected students to utilize the power of positive thinking and daily affirmations to combat stress and increase productivity. However, it was not what we expected! Why? Because you, the participants and supporters, exceeded our expectations . . . We didn't expect to have a student volunteer to use the public speaking strategies we shared to give a tutorial on how to make a delicious snack, complete with PowerPoint presentation and some research about the benefits of each ingredient. We didn't expect a parent to be so impressed with a time-management strategy that he asked his child to commit, in writing, to use it for school. We didn't expect to find the next NASHDO Scholarship recipient sitting in the room. As we talked and connected, a 7th grader’s family's struggles surfaced. MAF was able to step in and connect with her school Aquinas Academy in Livingston and award the NASHDO scholarship to assist the family. Don't take our word for it. Let our students tell you . . . |
Authors:
|
Michael Aymar Foundation | Blog |
New Jersey Focused |
|