Sticks And Stones Testimonials
Below is a sampling of the hundreds of letters, cards, emails and Facebook posts that we have received from teachers, administrators, parents, grandparents and students...
I am not sure where to begin expressing the impact Sticks and Stones has made on our school. Three months have passed and not a day goes by without someone referencing an element of your program. The vocabulary is displayed in every room in the building; the random acts of kindness buckets are filled daily; conversations circulate among the students about being an upstander or taking a healthy risk. Our staff incorporated your messages when developing their classroom culture and students are recognized for "making Skip and Jeff smile." We have meaningful discussions about the difference between "not being mean" and being PURPOSEFULLY kind. And what a difference that is! Beyond the language and messages your program brought to our students, the preparation and performance truly allowed the kids to experience something greater than themselves. Their collaboration and willingness to take a risk has provided a powerful, concrete example to inspire and motivate and energize our entire school. Thank you just doesn't cut it. I have worked with children for over 30 years and can honestly say that your program can change lives. Sticks and Stones balances education and inspiration and performance arts in a way that is transformational. Your professionalism and skills as educators brought depth to the performance element and your abilities as musicians brought excitement to the learning. You are masters and I am beyond appreciative to have been around for the ride. Julie Person Counselor, Rollinsford Grade School Rollinsford, NH Hi Jeff and Skip, We are still in awe of our Sticks and Stones experience at Central School. Thank you very much for coming to our school and getting us all talking about the importance of kindness and how one person can make a difference. The whole program was extremely timely with the new year and resolutions, Dr. King's birthday, and our upcoming opinion writing. Thank you! Megan Zottoli-Breen Teacher, Central School South Berwick, Maine "The message of kindness and rapport building imparted by the Sticks and Stones program reinforced our practices of our Peace Builders’ curriculum within our school. Jeff Erwin and Skip Brunette were amazing to work with; our students were enthralled by their stories, music and unique musical instruments. Their language of peace made great connections for our students. Parents commented after the students’ performance that it was the best show they had seen at the school with such a powerful message for their children." Teresa Morin Bailey Principal, Seabrook Elementary School "Sticks and Stones was the best school assembly I have ever attended. Jeff and Skip are amazing as were the 3rd grade students." Kathy Coburn Parent "All of our students truly loved their time with you, and the culminating event was so impressive after such a short time with our seventh graders…You could see the the pride and enthusiasm in their work. Your program was able to show students that they could do anything they put their mind to as long as they have confidence. We had some of our shyest students in front of the whole school singing and we had students who rarely attend after school events come to our evening performance because of the pride and the excitement they felt in the endeavor. You were both able to build relationships and trust with our students during this two week residency, which showed in their willingness to get up in front of the entire school and shine. I would highly recommend this program to any school because of the impact it can make…Sticks and Stones not only leaves a lasting impression due to the way it is delivered but also because it is evident that you both truly love what you do." Erin Parda School Counselor, Gilmanton School, Gilmanton, NH “The principles of the Sticks and Stones program and the caliber of its facilitators create an ideal match that supports the team approach to teaching behavioral expectations throughout the school.” Barbara Knapp Former Barnard School Principal South Hampton, NH "For children to progress academically they need to feel safe and confident. Sticks and Stones is a program designed to reset our culture and create an environment that will give young people the confidence and self-esteem to experience life to the fullest!" John Reynolds 7th grade science teacher, Rupert A. Nock Middle School Newburyport, MA “This is an amazing program. Our schools and communities need people like you to help with this HUGE and growing problem in our society. Thank you!” Sandy Edwards Parent From the first day of Sticks and Stones I could visibly see the gears in my student's heads turning--they were beginning to understand that their words and actions can cause serious damage. The simplistic methods and activities used by Jeff and Skip to convey this sensitive message, pack a punch that will stay with kids for their entire lives. I saw my students evolve throughout the process. The shy, quiet kid gained confidence and the loud, boisterous kid complemented them. As a K-8 teacher myself, I was amazed at how versatile Jeff and Skip were at teaching a variety of ages and how easily they adapted their workshops so that they deeply impacted each grade level. I am incredibly grateful that my school had the opportunity to experience the Sticks and Stones program and continue to see how the experience has transformed my students and the way they treat their peers. Brynn Potter K-8 Art Teacher, Gilmanton School, Gilmanton, NH "Jeff and Skip’s residency was not only powerful and moving for the students but the staff at Fairfield as well! They connected with the kids through music, technology, and a general warmth and respect. The students were excited and enthralled with the unique instruction and easy to understand approach to an anti-bullying method. Teachers are already hard pressed to fit all the curriculum into a day, making anyone hesitant to give up educational time, yet after working with Sticks and Stones we all agreed that the time was well spent! It helped create a common language for kindness that the school can use throughout the year. The culminating performance attracted more parent’s and community members than ever anticipated emphasizing how much value and importance the kids shared with those at home and a genuine excitement to be part of Jeff and Skip’s presentation. Fairfield is looking forward to being involved with the Sticks and Stones program again next year and for many more to come. Thank you Jeff and Skip for your talent and dedication to creating a more positive environment for young people. Sticks and Stones is highly recommended to engage any audience in a tech and media driven world." Michelle Rancourt, LCPC School Counselor, Fairfield School Saco, Maine Jeff and Skip, Thought you'd appreciate this. I was reading the book Wonder in Aimee Krauss' room today: (JUSTIN SECTION) "You're entitled, Olivia. You've dealt with a lot your whole life." Olivia reminds me of a bird sometimes, how her feathers get all ruffled when she's mad. And when she's fragile like this, she's a little lost bird looking for its nest. So I give her my wing to hide under." When I asked the students what this all meant, a 4th grader replied: It's like when Sticks and Stones was here and we did Lean On Me. Olivia has a heavy load and Justin is letting Olivia know that he will help her carry it. Julie Person Counselor, Rollinsford Grade School Rollinsford, NH MORE TESTIMONIALS HERE |