HOUSTON – Booker T. Washington High School (BTW) has teamed up with a nonprofit STEM program to help students and teachers manage the stress of COVID-19, with the cool off viral video challenge and competition.
The “STEM Up With Dr. KiKi” after school program at BTW was in the process of incorporating Social and Emotional Learning Defined (SEL) skills when the coronavirus forced them to close.
“Everyone is dealing with quarantine differently and many may be feeling stressed and overwhelmed,” said Dr. KiKi. “SEL provides our students with the tools to accurately communicate and manage those stresses, but we realized that to help the students we needed to first help the parents and teachers.”
SEL has become a major component of the STEM program at BTW because it teaches the students the techniques to understand and manage their emotions, as well as develop strategies to avoid negative behaviors.
[See challenge video]
Dr. Kiki reached out to the counselors at BTW and created three SEL videos in English and Spanish for the teachers and students to access through the school’s web portal. Each video will focus on different SEL practices including; Self-Awareness (identifying emotions), Self-Management (impulse control and stress management) and Relationship-Skills.
“As a mother, I saw how my children were entertained for hours attempting to recreate the dance challenges and that’s when I realized that we could incorporate the SEL lesson plan into a challenge,” said Dr. Kiki. “After many conversations the counselors and myself decided to make it a competition for the students and teachers to participate with their families and win prizes.”
BTW students and teachers will be able to watch the three SEL videos and create an original video showing the wrong way to respond in a tense or stressful situation and the correct way to respond. Each video can be uploaded to a social media platform with the hashtag #SELCOOLOFFCHALLENGE. A group of local celebrities and community leaders will serve as judges to select the best videos. Two lucky teachers and students will have the chance to win $250 each courtesy of District H Council Member Karla Cisneros and the Harris County Department of Education Case For Kids City Connections Grant.
The SEL Cool Off Challenge aims to put a spin on the original challenge that was created by Grammy Award-winning artist Missy Elliott, to boost the presence of her latest hit song Cool off.
When asked what she hopes the students will gain from this experience Dr. KiKi replied, “I just hope that they understand we all get frustrated and overwhelmed but the best thing you can do sometimes is walk away and cool off.”
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
