Last week I ran into EB aka Speedy Amara while I was attending a girls basketball game, and there was no doubt in my mind that he should come and talk to my students. Focusing on the theme of leadership and life, he discussed his path from middle school to present and left a deep impression on my students - so much that they were quoting him all day! Poised, confident, strong and articulate, EB talked real to my students citing who he was as a middle schooler and breaking it down to who he's becoming now. Here's a sample of their takeaways . . .
Diversity and pride; We are the east side.
The most important thing is education.
It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.
It's hard, but possible. Very possible.
Work hard for the things you want.
The NBA isn't going anywhere, it will always be there. Your education might not so get it NOW.
Respect education.
If you want something you have to have an education.
#msmatsonspeaks
And my favorite:
The teacher doesn't 'give' you a grade, they just point out what you earned. You give yourself your own grade based on proof that you made the effort and did the hard work.
#truth
Tomorrow we'll use EB's quotes to launch a collaborative writing exercise that will explore the passion of athletes, artists, poets, dancers, and musicians. Thanks to EB for adding some mileage to the end of the year!
#powerful #proud #represent #respect education
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