August/September 2016
Student Success By the Numbers
4’s a Charm
How the Fourth Installment of Prodigy’s Turn Up Dance Battle Delivered Awe
How do you
HAIKU? 1
Prodigy Sites
Got Talent? We’ve got class-es! Call or visit a site to learn more!
Hillsborough County
Pasco County
BGC Brandon Prodigy®
BGC Lacoochee Prodigy®
Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay, Inc. Bill Carey Brandon Unit 213 North Knights Avenue, Brandon, FL 33510 813-685-2006 abarrios@bgctampa.org
Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay, Inc. 38724 Mudcat Grant Boulevard, Lacoochee, FL 33537 352-583-0642 mvictor@bgctampa.com
FICS Prodigy® Florida Institute for Community Studies, Inc. 6704 Hanley Road, Tampa, FL 33634 813-249-8100 mercedesf@ficsinc.org
Prodigy Moves® University Area CDC 14013 North 22nd Street, Tampa, FL 33613 813-558-5212 x 303 sdelbridge@uacdc.org
THA Prodigy® Tampa Housing Authority 5301 West Cypress Street, Tampa, FL 33607 813-341-9101 diane.lindsay@thafl.com N
UACDC Tampa I Prodigy® University Area CDC 14013 North 22nd Street, Tampa, FL 33613 813-558-5212 x 217 mvazquez@uacdc.org
Orange County ONIC Prodigy® Orlando Neighborhood Improvement Corporation 101 South Terry Avenue, Orlando, FL 32805 407-648-1623 jennings@orlandoneighborhood.org
Saint Leo Prodigy® Saint Leo University Department of Social Work University Campus, MC2067, Saint Leo, FL 33574 352-588-7425 frances.ramos@saintleo.edu
Pinellas County YMCA Prodigy® YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg, Inc. 600 1st Avenue North, Suite 201, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 727-895-9622 vbrimm@stpeteymca.org
Polk County Girls Inc. Prodigy® Girls Inc. of Lakeland 1220 West Highland Street, Lakeland, FL 33815 863-682-3002 x 222 kayfields@girlsinclakeland.com
Heartland Prodigy® Heartland for Children 1239 East Main Street, Bartow, FL 33830 863-232-7036 mjones14@heartlandforchildren.org
Oasis Prodigy® Oasis Community Church 3330 Winter Lake Road, Lakeland, FL 33803 863-667-2000 x 150 daguilar@oasischurch.org
Osceola County EF Prodigy® The Foundation for Osceola Education, Inc. 2310 New Beginnings Road, Suite 118 Kissimmee, FL 34744 407-870-4855 mcosme@osceola.k12.fl.us
P
1
Moving On But Still Pushing Us Forward
Pictured above and on the cover: Girls Inc. Prodigy poses with their 1st place trophy from the 2016 Turn Up IV Dance Battle
Prodigy’s Got Talent
On July 16, 2016, over 200 young dancers, families, friends and staff joined in on some funky fresh fun at the Turn Up IV Prodigy Dance Battle. Held at the Brandon Boys & Girls Club, the event exhibited various contemporary and urban dance styles. This year also marked the entry of a new category, the Dance Team Challenge. Many students who competed in last year’s battle returned for a victory. “I came to compete and win,” remarked Fernando Contreras, last year’s Cypher King winner. The talented dancer from FICS Prodigy gained recognition after placing fourth in last year’s teen all styles competition. Since then, he has served as a Prodigy Ambassador during 2016 Children’s Week and formed a hip hop dance club at his high school. This year, he placed first in the teen all styles competition.
Two other competing dancers from last year’s contest also walked away with trophies: Yency Padilla and Larisha Lopez, both from UACDC Tampa I Prodigy, earned a runner up trophy in the kids competition and a pre-teen first place trophy respectively. Continued on page 7
As the Prodigy Cultural Arts Program enters its 16th year, one special family member will be moving on. Since spring 2014, Prodigy Moves Site Manager Spencer Delbridge has made a huge contribution to the program through his leadership. “I would like to thank the Prodigy Cultural Arts Program, UACDC, the whole team at FICS, and the families and community in Town 'n Country,” he recently expressed. “I also would like to thank our staff band, The Collective and of course, Prodigy Moves.” Although he is busy preparing for his next endeavor, Spencer decided to share his thoughts on his experience with Prodigy and Prodigy Moves. For him, it’s been groundbreaking. “World class art instruction and dynamic partnerships in areas with barriers to programming,” he answered when asked about the mobile unit he helped develop. Since its inception, Prodigy Moves successfully worked with a variety of partners opening up new avenues for arts education. “It’s innovative programming like SPoT (Skate Park of Tampa), it’s intercultural connections,” he recalled. “Our team is very equipped to work in a wide variety of locations. The education piece Continued on page 7
In this Issue Listing of Prodigy Sites In the Spotlight The Rewind How Do You Haiku? On the Mic Monthly Event Calendar Back to School Class Sampler
… … … … … … …
… … … … … … …
… … … … … … …
… … … … … … …
… … … … … … …
… … … … … … …
… … … … … … …
1 3 4 5 6 6 7
: Prodigy Cultural Arts Program Visit us online at www.TransformingYoungLives.org
Pictured above: Spencer and the Prodigy Moves team
Got a Story to Tell?
For content suggestions, please send an email to Davida A. Bowen at dbowen@uacdc.org.
2
IN
Student Success
Case Management Team
Pictured above (l-r): Jaime Sanchez, Yaritza Bermudez, Eva Rivera Lopez, Kisha Copeland, Toni Crite and Patricia Andrade
In 2014, the Prodigy Cultural Arts Program launched a well needed resource. Called Wrap Around Services, the new initiative provided social and academic services for students and their families free of charge. Since its inception, the program has served hundreds of students and caregivers with mentoring, tutoring and health services. Now in its third year, this valuable program has evolved into a highly specialized support system for Prodigy’s new Student Success Model. As Prodigy sites launch student success plans throughout the new school year, they’ll have a strong team of advisors assisting with:
Tutoring and mentoring referrals
Case management for urgent well being needs
Administrative support
Prodigy is committed to enriching students through the arts. As the program evolves, and with the support of the wrap around services, it is becoming even more effective by taking a holistic approach in transforming young lives.
6
Number of Prodigy staff which include 1 Non-clinical service manager, 1 Lead Case Manager and 4 Case Managers
250
Total students served during the 2015/2016 grant year
185
Students given academic support during the 2015/2016 grant year such as tutoring services and IEP plan assistance
251
Total instances of pro social support services and activities provided during the 2015/2016 grant year such as mentoring services
3
Rewind The
Prodigy in Pictures
Shown above (clockwise from top left): BGC Lacoochee Prodigy Site Manager Maxon Victor poses with the runner up and 1st place winner of the pre-teen category at the Turn Up IV Dance Battle; a young pianist from EF Prodigy plays a piece for their summer showcase; a dancer from the Turn Up IV Dance Battle strikes a freeze as a judge looks on; EF Prodigy Instructor Nanette Kaufman gives a tour of her state-of-the-art keyboard classroom at East Lake Elementary; savory delights from the Girls Inc. culinary class are displayed for guests at their summer showcase; a dancer from the Turn Up IV Dance Battle impresses the crowd with a move; a keyboard student plays a piece with Prodigy Instructor Dionne Shaw during UACDC Tampa I Prodigy’s summer piano recital; Prodigy Instructor Katie Woodbrook proudly looks on at one of her students presenting his artwork during UACDC Tampa I Prodigy’s summer piano recital
4
How do you HAIKU? New Ways to Explore the Art of Poetry
Why You Should Haiku Prodigy Instructor Glenda Thurmond recommends incorporating Haiku in the younger grades whenever possible. Here she Pictured above: Instructor gives 7 reasons why. Prodigy Glenda Thurmond
Throughout Polk and Osceola Counties, students are learning how to express themselves by composing poetry and transforming their pieces into works of art. By accomplishing this special Pictured above: student from EF Prodigy feat, Prodigy Instructor Glenda poses with his Haiku Thurmond is successfully integrating academic components into her art lessons. Glenda explored this concept during an art class for elementary students at EF Prodigy. “I wanted to incorporate writing and music,” she recalled. So, on the first day of her class, students learned the 5-7-5 syllable structure of haiku. The students then came up with words and phrases that described what they liked best about summer and they wrote them on the board and in their art journals. Eventually, they began experimenting with words, syllables and structure. When finished, Glenda’s students began illustrating their poems. As the class progressed, students began experimenting with sound and movement to add layers to their creations. They used bongos, maracas, shakers, rhythm sticks, a guitar and an autoharp. At the end of class each student would display his or her Illustration and recite the haiku while another student used the instruments for sound effects and/or another included movement or dance in the back ground that might represent waves on a beach or a seagull flying above the ocean. “RICO - relaxation, imagination, concentration and observation,” Glenda asserted. “Those are the skills I focus on when teaching acting.” Building those skills becomes a way of life for every actor. As Glenda has discovered, they are no less important for writers, musicians and artists.
It is a simple creative process that allows students to achieve. It encourages students to use their senses. It helps them relax and notice the unnoticed, simple parts of life. It helps them sum up their thoughts or experiences with concise words in three lines. It gives them the opportunity to slow down, perceive and interpret their lives and experiences in an artistic way. It stimulates their imaginations which will lead to higher order thinking. It allows them to build trust in others as they share parts of their lives with their peers. - Glenda Thurmond
dicated a ity Area CDC de rs ve ni U e Cosme. th da of in Mel Members igy Site Manager haiku to EF Prod Pictured above (l - r): Prodigy Moves Site Manager Spencer Delbridge, Case Manager Patricia Andrade, Administrative Assistant Jennifer Rees, Custodian Randy Chapman, Site Liaison Daniel Khahaifa, Site Liaison Diana Caicedo, Marketing and Development Assistant Justin Ellis
5
Eloise Visual Arts Center 710 Snively Ave. Eloise, FL 33880 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Networking 9:30 am
HAPPENINGS & EVENTS
A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 016
Here’s to a Great School Year
Prodigy has always been innovative and met students where they are at, but we can continue to learn best practices especially now “It is not enough to teach that our focus is to weave subjects out of a text book in more skills and lessons without critical thinking, hands on activities and that are needed for discussion.” academic success. Educational change expert Back to school…oh, back to school Dr. Bill Dagget (cue the scene from the movie Billy revolutionized work with Madison when Adam Sandler is schools by creating the new 3 singing as he waits for the school R’s that every child needs to bus). Students and parents alike are succeed Rigor (high standards, a filled with anticipation, excitement push to excellence), Relevance (make it matter), and some trepidation. You can see it and Relationships (knowing your student and vice versa). on their faces on the first day and as These R’s are not only for schools but can also be adopted in they hustle through the store to get those supplies. My boys Prodigy programming. So, whether its Hit the Q.U.A.N. or started high school and middle school this year (yikes!) and I engaging students in Prodigy still can’t believe how much stuff they need! classes like culinary or Schools often get a bad rap for being antiquated and fashion design where they mundane. However, what I look for and find fascinating are all can pursue their passion the ways that educators use innovative techniques to teach and connect what they core subjects and connect education to the real world. It is are learning to real happening! It is not enough these days just to teach math, world opportunities, English and other subjects only through lecture or out of a time and again this will text book without critical thinking, hands on activities and keep students engaged discussion. It’s about meeting students where they are at and and eager to learn finding out what will connect with them. An excellent example and excel. of this was a poster hanging in my youngest son’s classroom Here’s to a great school during open house – Hit the Q.U.A.N (see picture)! Using a and Prodigy year! current (ok, a little outdated now) dance to teach a critical thinking process – brilliant!
- Mike Trepper
Pictured above: Students from the Girls Inc. Prodigy culinary arts class exhibit their work
6
Continued from page 2
Check out these awesome classes!* Amazing Guitar
Poetry in Pictures
Fusion Dance & Step
Journey into the vibrant, colorful world of Latin rhythms as Prodigy explores the melodic world of the amazing guitar!
Discover how to bring sonnets and rhymes to life as Prodigy uncovers cool visual art and mixed media techniques.
Come celebrate style, poise and movement in this soulful fusion of jazz, step and contemporary dance.
FICS Prodigy Tampa, FL Grades 1 - 5, 6 - 8 & 9 - 12 813-249-8100
UACDC Tampa I Prodigy Tampa, FL Grades K - 5 813-558-5212 x 217
Girls Inc. Prodigy Grades 6 - 8 Jazz available for grades 1 - 5 863-682-3002 x 222
*More classes available! Call or email a Prodigy site for a schedule. See inside front cover for a complete listing of sites.
Continued from page 2 Three dance teams stepped up the competition this year with a first place trophy going to Girls Inc. Prodigy, second place going to BGC Lacoochee Prodigy and third place going to YMCA Prodigy. The win was a special one for YMCA Prodigy who travelled from St. Petersburg each year in hopes to win a trophy. BGC Brandon also added their talents to the arena with a performance by the F.S. 88 Drum Line and Step Team. Altogether six Prodigy sites along with dancers from Kissimmee and Clearwater descended upon Brandon to participate in the event. Pictured right (l - r): Teen 1st place winner who also served as a Prodigy Ambassador stands triumphantly with teen runner up; both students hail from FICS Prodigy
holds a lot of promise as we continue to partner with UT and open channels with USF.” What does Spencer see in the future of Prodigy Moves? “I'm really excited for the future of Prodigy Moves .” Throughout the past year, Spencer and the Prodigy Moves team worked with a slew of different types of agencies from grass root nonprofits to big ten organizations. “PM's strength has come from engaging a wide variety of communities and organizations, which will benefit the mobile unit and Prodigy Program across the contract moving forward.” The Prodigy Cultural Arts Program delivers an amazing initiative to young people across Central Florida. Some think the program could eventually grow beyond state borders and Spencer agrees. “Definitely,” he asserted. “It could be a national model for innovative arts education and community engagement and development.” No matter where the program is delivered, one thing is certain: Prodigy is transforming young lives. Many people have committed to this effort and with Spencer’s valuable contribution to the program, Prodigy has made a lasting impact in communities where the arts are seldom served.
About the Prodigy Cultural Arts Program The purpose of the Prodigy program is to provide the instruction, tools and resources that will lead to transformed lives. Youth are encouraged to explore themes and ideas that develop a sense of self-worth, as well as appreciate the worth and value of others and the world in which they live. When youth have a better understanding of who they are and how they connect with their communities, they are better prepared to become productive and socially responsible adults. For more information, visit www.transformingyounglives.org. 7