Sullivan Speaks to Local Students

On Monday, January 20th, the Malta School system brought in an inspirational speaker that spoke at two assemblies. Michael Sullivan flew in from Virginia Beach and spoke with the students from Malta Schools and Dodson and Saco schools were also invited.

Sullivan captured the young audience and teachers as well, as he presented his program "BORN TO SHINE," which is directed to work on depression and anxiety. The process he shares is SEL, which stands for Social and Emotional Learning.

Superintendent Steve Bucks said, "It was well received by elementary level students. Many positive comments, from teachers at that level. The message that we should all take home, it that each of us has value and gifts no one else has."

In addition to the presentations at the auditorium for students and staff, Sullivan help an additional session on Monday evening at 5 p.m., for a small crowd.

Sullivan provided a message on his webpage, which parents should be aware of, "Did you know that school meals play a key role in fostering positive mental health for students? Research highlights how nutritious meals at school can combat food insecurity and improve student behavior.

Schools that participate in Child Nutrition Programs see reduced anxiety, depression, and hyperactivity in students."

The BORN TO SHINE focuses on five areas. Self-awareness: recognizing your emotions, strengths, and areas for growth; self-management: which is regulating your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors; social awareness: taking the perspective of others and empathizing with them. It focus and build skills for: relationship skills: Building and maintaining healthy relationships with others, and responsible decision making, that includes choosing how to act in a situation.

Malta Elementary Principal JF Hewitt added his take on the session, "I have received feedback from students and staff here at the elementary school that they enjoyed his presentation. His message made a positive impact on them. He was engaging and could alter the presentation as the audience needed.

Regarding the most meaningful message, I think his message about positive affirmations was most meaningful. The tools he provided to the audience will be beneficial, as well."

It is probably safe to say that there is not a school that does not have struggles and incidents of bullying and the strength, skills and reinforcement that students develop and hone in on will make them stronger. It is a matter of belief in oneself.

More importantly, it reaffirms the need to be a role model and also to know that you are important. Stand up for yourself and also take a stand for someone else if need be.

As the saying goes, "...when you can be anything...be kind." The world will be a brighter and better place if we all practice the concept. Let's start now, when the newness of the year is on our side.