I AM not the MEdia's "Mind Over Media" Program Curriculum Launched Spring 2011
In the year 2013, I AM not the MEdia served over 1500 teens through outreach programs, workshops and events.
The program curriculum for I AM not the MEdia has six focus areas which are known as our 6 channels. Our 6 channels were derived from research that pin-pointed 6 focus areas where teens are highly influenced by the media, through our objectives we strive to teach “ME-Control." All of our programs fall under these channels.
WHAT IS ME-CONTROL?
ME-Control is the term created by I AM not the MEdia and is defined as the ability to make positive choices that are not influenced by the media and/or negative social norms.
(Below is the ME-Control Symbol)
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THE TURN IT UP TEEN RADIO PROGRAM
A co-worker (Kelly Czarnecki) and I created the Turn It Up Teen Radio Program for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. This program incorporates literacy and public speaking into a curriculum that exposes teens to the industry of Journalism and Radio Broadcast. Teens are mentored by industry professionals and challenged every month to create and produce their very own radio show. The program is in partnership with Carolina’s School of Broadcasting (www.csbradiotv.edu) and WFAE Radio (www.wfae.org).
PARTNERS:
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TEEN FASHION APPRENTICE (TFA)
Summer 2012/Summer 2013
***ONE OF YALSA'S TOP 5 PROGRAMS IN THE NATION
TFA is a program that allows teens the opportunity to experience the fashion industry first hand. With workshops led by professionals in the industry, the chance to walk the stage at Charlotte Fashion Week and the opportunity to win an actual apprenticeship, the TFA program creates opportunities for teens that they dream of! The program is a partnership with Charlotte Seen (Owners of Charlotte Fashion Week), Children's Theatre Costume Shop, The Art Institute, and local design agencies and shops. Teen Fashion Apprentice is program that starts in the summer and stretches to September with the grand finale at Charlotte Fashion Week.
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"Music Over Violent Entertainment"
May 2009 - August 2009
PURPOSE
A MOVEment created to enlighten and to empower musically talented teens through education and positive self expression.
VISION
To create a group of musically talented teen leaders who are culturally aware of the influences of music and the role that they play in contributing to the productivity of reinventing a culturally positive and substantial avenue of musical expression.
THE PROGRAM
The MOVE Squad
An annual audition will be held to choose teens with various musical talents and with a true passion for leadership. 15-20 teens aged 13-18 will be chosen with versatile music backgrounds ranging from, singing, rapping or even instrumental performance. The teens that are chosen will create a cultural positive CD and to serve as peer educators in the Charlotte community by educating their peers to take a stand in the MOVEment against violence in Hip Hop music.
EDUCATION COMPONENT
The Goal is to create a cultural positive CD which supports the MOVEment, “Music Over Violent Entertainment” by the end of the year. The teens will participate in this movement through a series of monthly workshops that will consist of musical guest speakers, discussion forums, and panelist. Literature will be given at workshops for discussions and also to encourage reading for teens to gain knowledge and further insight about the culture as well as the industry of music. Workshops are designed to enlighten and empower the youth.
The Music Workshop series will discuss the origins of hip hop, its evolution, examine how it is today and how to get back to the centralized focus of its core purpose…MUSIC and The MESSAGE!
OUTCOMES
- Teens will become more culturally aware of the importance and their responsibility to positively influence the music industry as a musician.
- Teens will learn professionalism as well as leadership skills through opportunities to educate their peers
- Teens will gain greater self concept, identity and increased confidence through opportunities to perform and discover hidden interest and talents
- Teens will gain a sense of belonging through the MOVE Squad with peers that share complimentary interest and talents and by each individual playing an essential role to the group
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Myself along with a co-worker at ImaginOn, Seth Ervin, created a college prep program for the Library System. I created the logo and workshops as well as the curriculum for the workshop series including, power points, worksheets and the logistics for the programs. These programs were provided at different library branches across Charlotte Mecklenburg County.
Which College is Best for Me?
This workshop is geared towards helping teens decide which higher learning institution is best for them considering their career path, personal preference and individual needs. Students will discuss and explore the difference between private and public schools. Students will learn the many benefits of attending a community college and other higher learning institutions. Teens will also learn what an HBCU is, its purpose and what benefits students can receive from attending these institutions. The workshop will explore the pros and cons of attending out of state schools as well.
Applying for College
Guest Speaker: Think College
Need help with filling out your college application? Well this workshop is just for you. During this session, teens will be given tips and advice on how to present their package to colleges. Essay writing tips and assistance will be available to assist students with preparing their written profile for the desired college or university they wish to apply. During this workshop, students will also be notified of everything they will need to prepare and ensure they meet the admission requirements for their desired institution.
How to Pay for College
Guest Speaker: CFNC Representative
This workshop will be led by a representative from College Foundation North Carolina. During this workshop teens will learn the different opportunities that are available to pay for college. Seniors will be encouraged to fill out their FAFSA and assistance will be available for filling out the application. Loans, grants, scholarships and other forms of financial aid will be discussed to ensure teens understand the many options for paying for their education.
Accepted…Now What?
This workshop is geared towards helping admitted high school seniors explore available options after being accepted to the school of their choice. What should you begin saving your money for? What necessities will you need for starting school versus what expenses can wait till a later date?
Picking A Major
Haven't decided on a major? Well that is perfectly normal. At this workshop you will learn the steps to take before deciding your major. Find out what major may be best for you with your career path. Also find out the benefits of being a double major or taking on a minor. Is there a certain major that you have questions about? We might be able to help you answer those questions when you attend this workshop.
Freshman Year 101
Wondering what your freshman year may entail? Come to this workshop and talk to freshman students currently in school. Hear stories about room mates and dorm life. Learn about greek life and campus organizations. This workshop will end with a small segment on dorm style cooking recipes to take with you your freshman year.