“I was always getting in trouble, but Mr. Jones has tried to guide me in the right direction. I admit I was surprised that he wanted me to be part of the club,” said sophomore Derek Dudley. “I want to stay out of trouble and graduate.”

GC Founder Stephen Peters was unable to attend the ceremony but spoke to everyone in attendance via Skype. He told attendees that through the GC process, students and parents could establish a positive relationship with the school, which would enable them to become part of the solution, not the problem. He also emphasized that the boys needed to see themselves differently so that world around them could perceive them differently.

Dr. Christian Friend, executive director of planning and evaluation for Project Leadership and Investment for Transformation (L.I.F.T.) was the keynote speaker. He encouraged the students to always keep three words in mind: belief, leadership and excellence. Friend said mediocrity is never okay and that the boys need to believe in themselves and strive for excellence.

The most anticipated part of the ceremony was when Jones and Zone Superintendent Dr. Dawn Robinson presented the students with their neckties. They then recited the GC pledge in front of friends, family and community members.

“Although I have my grandfather as a role model, I am a very independent person and I make mistakes,” said senior Elsadig Mohamed. “When I told him I wanted to be part of this he was excited and very proud of me. His is going to see me doing something positive. I am already thinking how I can be a role model to my younger brother.”

Inductees include Elsadig Mohamed, Ronald Cummings, John Makahili, Lawrence Thomas, Dajon Lacey, Davonzel McCaskill, Trevonte Diggs, Derek Dudley, Cameron Perry, Christian Robinson, Taj Exume, Alexander Weerasuriya, Randall Enoch, Justin Shipp, Devon Henry, Noel Reid, Dashaun Johnson, Joshua Van Duzen, Dion Rivers and Kejuan Adams.

The Hopewell Club members will meet weekly and will be required to dress in proper attire, which include their white shirt, tie and pants with a belt. Students will receive a weekly progress report from teachers that will be based on academics, attendance behavior and attire. Students who score well on the reports will be chosen for extracurricular activities and programs. The Club members will also be required to participate in community service projects.

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It was in that year that Peters formed an innovative program called the Gentleman’s Club (GC). Beginning with a group of 30 middle school students, the GC has focused on increasing student motivation and engagement through a special curriculum, mentorship, and incentives.

“We have found that 90 percent of a school’s problems are caused by 10 percent of its population. We have targeted this 10 percent,” says Peters.

The GC focuses on three key areas: attendance, behavioral issues, and academic performance. Participants in the program have shown significant improvements in each. “With the program we have seen double digit drop in suspensions, double digit rise in attendance, and more than 70 percent of participants have improved grades from failing (D’s & F’s) to passing,” explains Peters.

The GC curriculum is comprised of 40 units that cover such topics as responsibility, etiquette, dignity, and patience. Just as importantly, the curriculum provides lessons that enhance study skills. Students meet weekly and must dress in white shirts…Full Article

“I thought I was pumped before, but Stephen Peters has me wanting to Do Something!” Amy McAllister, S.C. Teacher of the Year!

“Your message was so inspirational. I am so ready to DO Something!” Thank you for a great start to our conference. Cyndee Crawford, District Teacher of the Year

“Can’t stop thinking about the awesome experience SC Teacher Forum…Truly inspired, especially by my fellow Hamptonian Stephen Peters.” Terri Butts, District Teacher of the Year

“Your keynote speech at the NCLB conference in Chicago was so inspiring. Look forward to reading your book and being your newest follower on twitter.”
Kimberly

” Thank you Stephen Peters, thanks for the wonderful words you shared with us in Chicago.” Jean Wells

” Thank you for your inspiring words. Tomorrow I go back to school with a renewed energy to help my students.” We are so excited you’re coming to our district in October.”

You can follow him on Twitter at @9thWonderMusic

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