The Middle School’s ongoing commitment to character education was reinforced during two all-school assemblies on Nov. 15, led by Dr. Mykee Fowlin and his one-man “You Don’t Know Me Until You Know Me” program.
In assemblies for sixth and seventh/eighth graders, Dr. Fowlin took students and faculty on an experiential journey, having --- and later challenging --- them re-examine core principles that were taught from an early age. As an actor who holds a doctorate degree from Rutgers University, Dr. Fowlin used humor, performance art, poetry, storytelling, psychology, theatrical monologues and his personal journey to create a teachable moment experience for students.
As part of his presentation, Dr Fowlin performed dramatic vignettes featuring a six-year-old first-grade student, a college football athlete and high school student. Each character spoke about how he was confronted with bullying and prejudice, describing his thoughts and feelings about this hateful behavior. Dr. Fowlin's portrayals involved humor and relatability, but students found his intense emotions in the character portrayals most compelling.
He reminded students they had the ability to help those in pain to have less pain; that there are people in school who need their love and kindness; and they should not give people “a pass” on bad behaviors.
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Dr. Fowlin also stressed to students that no matter what they may be going through in their lives, they are never alone; that everyone has the potential to heal and help others to heal; that it’s never appropriate to make others feel bad; and they need to know the difference between what they’re supposed to do and what they need to do.
He began and ended his program with a performance of Poet Langston Hughes’ “Still Here,” a poem which depicts the isolation that many African-Americans felt in the early 20th Century due to systemic racism and oppression.
But, the poem also symbolizes adversity with wind, snow and sun --- elements which represent challenges to break one’s spirit. Despite these adversities, the poem also celebrates perseverance and resilience, emphasizing the strength one has to endure and overcome obstacles.
"I'm Still Here," by Langston Hughes
“I been scarred and battered.
“My hopes the wind done scattered.
“Snow has friz me,
“Sun has baked me,
“Looks like between 'em they done
“Tried to make me
“Stop laughin', stop lovin', stop livin'--
“But I don't care!
“I'm still here!”
Dr. Fowlin continues to speak at middle schools, high schools and colleges/universities nationwide with his mission of creating an atmosphere of worldwide inclusion, not just tolerance, toward all people.
Assistant Principal Thomas Rickard, who coordinates the Middle School's character education programs, equally challenged students at the presentation's conclusion, telling them: "Take this message and think about yourself and how you can make a positive impact on others."