Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Prize in Education

Deadline: March 19, 2010

The Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Prize in Education annually recognizes outstanding individuals who have dedicated themselves to improving education in this country and whose accomplishments are making a difference today.

Gwynne Toellner, from Shreveport, Louisiana, made headlines in her local community for her exemplary efforts working with at-promise students.  Ms. Toellner, a teacher at the Academic Recovery & Credit Discovery Center, is the recipient of the 2010 RAPSA Best Practices Award for Educators.

How can we as teachers, parents, counselors, and volunteers help teens fit in and feel comfortable in their own skin?  Teen self-esteem can determine their ability to succeed in school and through adolescence in general.  Wavering confidence and uncertainty about their own abilities, their body image, and their family life can draw negative feedback from peers, leading students to withdraw from activities and from developing relationships.

What do you do in your classroom or at your school site to create an environment where students feel confident?  How do you encourage positive self-esteem?  Share those ideas here in the RAPSA Lounge.