Since All Stars has become popular in all USD 428 elementary schools, as well as two other facilities, Michelle Daniel encourages sixth-grade teachers throughout central Kansas to consider the program.
Daniel, student and family advocate at Riley School in Great Bend, collaborates with Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services executive director, to offer All Stars in sixth-grade classrooms.
“We want to increase the number of students who delay the onset of using drugs and alcohol,” Daniel said. “All Star lessons teach students to think critically about what type of future they want.
“They delve into future possibilities, while All Stars cautions them about roadblocks to achieving their dreams. We hope they will not choose drugs or alcohol, or other risky behavior because it could get in the way of attaining success in life.”
Daniel, who has been involved in All Stars for more than a decade, added that students also learn that “the future is not given to them. They must work hard to reach their goals.”
Student and family advocates, along with math and reading coaches, teach a 45-minute lesson once a week for 16 weeks. In addition to USD 428 schools, Ellinwood and Central Plains are involved. Parents sign a permission form for All Stars.
“We get positive feedback from parents and teachers alike,” Daniel commented. “For example, parents like to participate by helping their kids with homework four times during the four-month program, and teachers like the curriculum and enjoy co-teaching.”
Typically, she added, the Kansas Communities That Care Survey indicates All Stars helps students look at their lives from new perspectives, while considering what obstacles may come their way.
Daniel noted that she and her Riley School colleagues appreciate their partnership with Juveniles Services, which covers Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell and Stafford counties.
“When we need guidance, materials, prizes or training, they are always willing to help,” she explained. “Also, Juvenile Services provides food and support during our end-of-class celebrations. They have even taught a few lessons for us, when necessary.”
Juvenile Services
Daniel deserves a lot of credit for getting All Stars off the ground, said Marissa Woodmansee at Juvenile Services, noting Riley School became the site of a pilot program under the leadership of Daniel and JoAnn Blevins.
“Michelle approached us, asking about a curriculum that followed the DARE prevention program for fifth-graders,” Woodmansee recalled. “She wanted something to prepare sixth-graders for middle school.
“I mentioned All Stars and how its curriculum includes preparing for the future, while considering how negative behaviors adversely affect the road to a successful life.”
Daniel earned a master’s in social work and “understands the importance of guiding conversations with sixth-graders,” Woodmansee noted. “It is fun to see the family support advocates build strong bonds with students in All Stars.
“It is also exciting to see these young people read their commitments to the future during end-of-year celebrations.”
Woodmansee strongly encouraged other schools in the 20th Judicial District to learn more about All Stars. Her number is 620-793-1930.
20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake & Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.
