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4.22.21 – STRIVE Program featuring Joseph Metts
April 22, 2021 @ 12:00 pm - 1:15 pm
This luncheon is to recognize the students and mentors that have or are participating in our STRIVE (Students Taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education).
Please join us as we congratulate these students for their commitment to the program, some for one year and others for two years.
Joseph Metts, the assistant principal at Ottawa Hills High School will be today’s featured speaker.
Joseph has been a proud member of the Ottawa Hills High School community since 2012. He enjoyed teaching both history and physical education, and in 2018 he transitioned to administration. He has served as the assistant principal since 2019 and always looks forward to working on behalf of the students at Ottawa Hills High School.
Stephanie Davis-Johnson, Principal
Stephanie Davis-Johnson, an alumna of the Grand Rapids Public Schools, Ottawa Hills graduating class of 1991, has worked within the district for 20+ years. My illustrious journey started as an Earth/Physical Science and OHHS Ninth Grade Academy teacher and spans multiple career advancements culminating my current role serving as the Ottawa Hills High School principal.
I believe all children can learn, even if it’s at a different pace, provided structure, the opportunity, with demonstrated consistent effort and encouragement.
Over the years, I have been blessed to help create opportunities, by challenging students to bridge formal classroom instruction to real life experiences, expanding their knowledge and broadening their horizon and possibilities. This work could not be done without other devoted staff, retired educators, dedicated mentor and volunteer.
STRIVE is such a valuable part of the Ottawa Hills High School Community and the Grand Rapids Public Schools organization. Your dedication and hard work are greatly appreciated!
I will always be a champion for all students! We must always be champions for all students!
“Every child deserves a champion”- Rita Pierson
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STRIVE (Students Taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education)
STRIVE is a motivational mentoring program working with high school junior and senior students who want to improve their educational status and expand their networks.
The mission of the STRIVE Program is to mentor high school students to achieve academic success, graduate from high school and continue their education in college, university, trade, technical or career school.
In pursuit of this mission, the STRIVE program provides positive role models for students to promote self discovery, the importance of High School Graduation, development of good values and life skills, and individual responsibility in STRIVING for excellence in life.
STRIVE is a partnership among students trying to make a difference in their lives, parents who are willing to support and encourage their students, high school administrators, faculty and counselors, Rotary Club of Grand Rapids and Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Charities Foundation.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
- Attitude – Student must maintain appropriate conduct and a positive attitude.
- Altruism – students must actively participate in two of the three volunteer activities called “STRIVE Days”.
- Attendance – students need to maintain 90% attendance level (equals two excused absences).
- Academics – Satisfy GPA requirements
How the Program Works:
High school administrators, and counselors select students they believe can succeed in the STRIVE program. A staff member is selected to help the STRIVE Chairs collect necessary information about the students during the year. Selected students sign a contract to participate. Parents sign an agreement that they will help and encourage the student. Parents also agree to attend the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids awards luncheon held in April. Rotary and community mentors host regular weekly meetings to increase student’s self-esteem, motivation and confidence.
REWARDS
Upon successful completion of the STRIVE requirements, the student will be entitled to the following:
- Award Certificate – presented to the student at the April awards luncheon
- Summer Work Premium – the student is eligible to be paid a $1.50 per hour, for hours worked from June 1-August 31, upon verification of employment, up to a maximum $750
- Scholarship – A scholarship of up to $3,000** can be earned and will be disbursed over 2 semesters to a college, university, trade, technical or career school of the students choice