In Need of Positive Role Models

By Suzzanne Pautler

Children need strong role models in order to become better people. An online dictionary defines a role model as “a person who serves as an example of the values, attitudes, and behaviors associated with a role.”  Role models “can also be persons who distinguish themselves in such a way that others admire and want to emulate them.” Being in the field of education, it is obvious to my eyes when children have, or do not have, positive adult role models in their lives.  

In my opinion, “commitment” must be emulated by adult role models so that children learn to hold this value in high regard.  By commitment I mean that a child should learn to be on time, finish what he/she starts, and not quit when things get challenging.  I found that the girls we worked with today lacked commitment.  Don’t misunderstand me.  The girls were present, engaged, and learning...but not with the usual passion and vigor.  

Throughout the past two years, Necessary Arts has invested time and energy into 15 particular girls at the site who are passionate about drama and performance. Nine of those girls were present today, along with 30 other students who continually interrupted and distracted.  For example, the nine would begin an activity, but at some point, a few would choose to leave the activity to go socialize, or else the non-participating friends would interrupt an activity to get the one of the participant’s attention.

The girls were quite involved in the morning’s team building activities like Zip Zap Zop. Likewise they put forth good effort into reviewing stage directions and participating in the flashcard activity. They were intrigued to make tutus in the brilliant colors of the Kenyan flag. Memorization of short quotes did not appear to be a difficult task for most, though reading out loud a script in English proved to be a challenge for two or three. The word “quarrel” was a new word for all. The script was based upon a fable about a big cat and a little cat who were best friends, until a big fight erupted to divide them. Interesting conversation ensued over this point as our big and little cat readers were actually sisters, and they could certainly relate to the topic at hand.  

Children grow, develop, and learn each and every day. Their rate of success often depends upon the adults and the environment in which they exist. I believe that this is what has changed at the educational center. The principal stated that she was happy that we were there “to play” with the children.  And after greeting us, she departed to track down the much needed beans and rice to stock the kitchen.  The assistant principal was involved for the first half hour, but then exited the hall for the duration of our 3+ hour visit.  One young teacher tried his best to support our efforts, but the change in climate had permeated the environment, so his presence did not have a great effect.

During the two years that Necessary Arts has worked at this site, the adults and leadership of the site have changed, not necessarily for the better.  Where are the role models for these girls?  Who can teach them concepts such as “commitment”?  The girls seem to be lacking the positive adult role models who can help them learn such lifelong behaviors.  I don’t expect those adults to be superhuman, but I do expect them to be role models who are present and engaged in the girls’ well-being.

At the other sites we’ve visited this week, the principals, teachers, cooks, pastor, “mother,” and adult volunteers have all been present, involved, and in awe of how well the children have responded to the work we’ve presented.  This is how Necessary Arts has always been received.  It saddens me that today’s site lacked adult presence and supervision.  I do not like to see students or schools head into a downward spiral.  I hope the leadership team has a “wake up call” in the near future to realize how special, unique, and empowered these girls are.  With their full support, the girls will once again demonstrate their determination, commitment, toughness, and power to succeed!