 Stephen G. Peters, Founder
Education Consultant/Author
www.stephenpetersgroup.com
Email: petersgroup1@aol.com
 The Peters Group
803-516-6097
803-516-6195 (fax)
“We Must Reach & Educate ALL
of our Children”
As we attempt to reach and educate ALL of our children one child at
a time, it is my hope that The Gentlemen’s Club process
provides you with a vehicle to accomplish this specific goal and more.
Our children are depending on us more and more to capture, inspire
and restore hope to them. Over the years, I have become convinced
that building positive, meaningful relationships is the answer!
I hope you will enjoy the journey as you see our young people respond
to your sincere efforts.
Stephen G. Peters
Gentlemen’s Club Founder
Copyright © 2006 The Peters Group. All rights reserved
How To Use The Guide
 This guide is designed to
give facilitators a step-bystep instructional approach
to identifying the dreams
and aspirations of young
boys.
 Each module contains a
focus and an activity to
reinforce the identified goals
and dreams of participants.
 The time frame allows for
40 weeks, cycling @ one
module per week.
 This guide was developed by
Stephen G. Peters, Founder of
The
Gentlemen’s
Club,
Education Consultant/Author.
1
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
W
hat do boys really need to develop strong, flexible emotional lines?
We know from research that it is within the power of every adult in a boy’s life to give him the
emotional grounding he needs to make his way successfully in the world.
Points to Nurturing & Protecting
The following five points have the potential to transform the way you nurture and protect the
emotional stamina of the boy in your life. While each boy's journey is unique, these points address
their basic needs -- which are the same. These needs are the foundations of parenting, teaching and
creating communities that respect and cultivate the inner being of boys:
Boys need, first and foremost, to be seen through different lens than the
traditional lens. Individually, and as a culture, we must discard the distorted view of boys
that ignores or denies the capacity for feeling. We must realize the harm in asking “too much
and not enough” of them. Society tends to demand more at times than they are developmentally able
to give while unnecessarily lowering expectations of self-control, emotional honesty, and moral
responsibility.
Consciously speak to a boy's internal life all the time whether he is
aware of it or not. Give boys permission to have an internal life, approval for the full
range of human sensitivity and help in developing an emotional vocabulary. This empowers them
to better understand their inner self and to communicate more effectively with others. You
respect their inner life, take it into account, make reference to it, you share your own.
Instead of saying:
"You can try out for basketball or be in The Gentlemen's Club.
Which do you want to do?
You might say:
“I know you were disappointed about not making the team last
year. Do you want to take that risk and try out again? How are
you going to choose between the two?”
2
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Recognize and accept the high activity level of boys and give them safe
places to express it. Boys will be open about their feelings if you create a safe
environment for it to happen. This happens in classrooms wherein students are asked to keep
journals, write essays, create art, write rap songs, or engage in discussions about feelings.
When asked what is their favorite part of the school day, boys often answer, “You mean, besides
P.E.?” Boys need space for jumping; for their energy and their exuberance. They need it both in
school and at home. If this time is not built-into the curriculum, they will create it at a time that
may not be conducive to the educational mission of the school.
Talk to boys in their language and in a way that honors their pride and
masculinity. Be direct with boys; use them as consultants and problem solvers. Because
boys are mis-educated to fear excessive feeling and vulnerability, it is important to communicate
with them in a way that honors their desire for pride and strength. They often act as if they were
allergic to direct emotional appeal (the kind that might work with girls).
Teach boys that emotional courage IS courage. If asked, "What Is Courage?," a
boy is likely to answer, "bravery." If asked to give an example of bravery, he is likely to tell
about a popular movie that he has seen or refer to a classmate's willingness to stand up to a
bully.
Each January, when the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. becomes the topic of class discussion
in most schools, boys and girls are impassioned by their study of the slain civil rights leader.
They learn of Dr. King’s courage in his stirring speeches, in his books and in documentary films.
They have now made the connection to emotional courage.
The foundation to living a healthy emotional life rests with those who are able to make
connection with our young boys. Understanding this, we set out to place in front of our young
men, those they could emulate on any given day. Knowing our responsibility, we continue to
mold, shape, redirect and restore hope to our young men.
3
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
The Gentlemen’s Club:
This model program was founded by Stephen G. Peters, former middle school principal, as an
effective intervention and personal empowerment program for at-risk boys (a sister program “The
Ladies Club” is also available for girls).
Participants are led through the values, beliefs, strategies, and techniques needed to foster a school
climate and culture (or a community-based program) that gives children hope, and where all children
become engaged in an educational process. Participants analyze the 40 units contained in the
curriculum and how they are holistically integrated to change student’s attitudes toward learning and
the learning process.
Learning goals will include how to:

Facilitate bringing about a shift in adult paradigms from intervention to
prevention and empowerment programs for at-risk children.

Foster the collaborative efforts of stakeholders.

Gather, analyze, and utilize data in the selection process.

Identify mentors, sponsors, and business partners who are interested in
becoming "disciplinary experts" and establish personal relationships with
students. These individuals have a central focus in the student's areas of interest,
dreams, aspirations and long-term goals.

Lead students into leadership skill development that will positively impact school
climate and culture, as well as pave the way to heightened academic achievement.

Gain buy-in from students at the first meeting by using effective verbal and
nonverbal communication.

Develop clearly defined rules, consistent and equitable rewards and
consequences, and ongoing assessment criteria that help students to become selfdirected in their behavior and accept responsibility for their actions.

Determine a sequencing of units that lead students into better
understanding themselves, how they’re smart, how they learn, and what barriers
have hindered them in becoming successful in school.
4
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Overview
“The Gentlemen’s Club was
developed to serve as a lifeline
to save young men from falling
through the cracks. I wanted to
have something to show these
students there was another way
to live their lives. It would prove
to them that one need not let
the rhythm of the streets dictate
their futures.”
Stephen G. Peters
Founder
Gentlemen’s Club Process

Learning to exercise control over one’s self is transforming energy. The force that transforms the
person from being a boy to becoming a man is KNOWLEDGE!

It is critical that the boy be guided in the use of his yet immature reasoning so that it doesn’t get
entrapped in the form of “eternal boyishness.”

Good teachers, fathers, brothers, uncles and mentors are extremely important. They are the
instruments of guidance, which help boys move toward manhood. So many of our young men
get arrested in the boyhood stage of their developmental because they are improperly guided and
end up being led away to prison or carried away to the cemetery.

Consciousness is a natural possibility or potential, but is must be tended and guided in order for it
to develop properly.

The Gentlemen’s Club aids young boys in the process of becoming responsible, respectable and
productive members of society.
CAUSE for ALARM
African-American males:



have the least life expectancy of any group in this country
are more likely to die before the age of twenty and least likely to reach sixty than anyone else in
this country
represent not only the greatest likelihood of physical casualties in this society but also the most
self-destructive group.
5
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Gentlemen’s Club Code of Conduct
1.
We will begin each day by affirming our individual and collective greatness.
2.
We will begin each day by giving each other
a hug (or handshake).
3.
We will always do our best to help each
other achieve their goals and dreams.
4.
We will always strive for the highest
character, integrity, and honesty.
5.
We will always maintain a passion for
excellence in what we do. Anything
worth doing is worth doing well!
6.
We will always maintain the manners and posture worthy of a royal heritage, carrying
ourselves with pride and dignity.
7.
We will always demonstrate respect for ourselves and for the rights and property of
others.
8.
We will never say negative or discouraging things to each other.
9.
We will never hit each other.
10.
We will apply each of the first nine codes of conduct as though someone was always
watching.
6
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Gentlemen’s Club Pledge
Today I pledge
to be the best me I can be, to demonstrate integrity in all
that I do, treat others with respect, remembering always that
I must respect myself first.
Today I pledge
that I, and I alone am responsible for making good choices.
Today I pledge
to demonstrate those behaviors that are consistent in
following my own dreams and aspirations.
Today I pledge
to be grateful for this opportunity to be led by those I
admire.
7
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
MODEL OF
EDUCATION
 All students are valued and expected to learn to
the best of their ability
 There is a sense of mission and commitment of all to that
mission.
 Student-teacher relationships are long-term.
 Personal planning, goal setting, and career awareness are integrated into the
curriculum.
 Curricula and learning processes are adapted and modified to meet the learning
needs of each student.
We have noted the following correlation among schools where at-risk mainstream
students ARE MEETING high standards of academic excellence:
1.
Build on the strengths and needs of all students.
2.
Provide a safe educational environment.
3.
Respect and value communities.
4.
Encourage linkages between the school and community.
5.
Include substantive parental involvement.
6.
Expect, demand, and provide resources for excellence.
7.
Reward excellence.
8.
Provide positive role models.
8
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
E
nhancing Self-Efficacy
Practices that help close the achievement gap and focus on relationship
building include:

Teachers and students seeing
themselves as partners within the
school social network.

Teachers providing ongoing feedback on
students’ efforts to master particular tasks.

Teachers helping students
establish and assess short
and long term learning
goals.

Teachers
providing
opportunities
for
students to self-direct their learning – meaning
that children initiate and direct their own learning
whenever possible.

Giving students opportunities to improve their performance rather
than making public references or social comparisons. Let students practice
a skill privately until the skill is mastered before being asked to make a
public demonstration of it.
9
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Gentlemen's Club Goals
 Carry oneself in a gentlemanly manner.
 Set Personal Goals and work hard to achieve them.
 Determine/set new goals.
 Improve academic and social behavior.
 Maintain good attendance and punctuality.
 Avoid suspension.
 Take responsibility for own actions.
 Become a productive member of society.
Learn to make better choices!!!!!
10
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Module 1
Selection Process

Various stake holders are involved and responsible for selecting those in greatest need of
services provided by The Gentlemen’s Club process. Those not selected will be placed
on a waiting list.

Data is collected (suspension reports, attendance reports, etc.) to aid in the decisionmaking process.
Module 2
First Meeting with Participants
1.
2.
3.
4.
Overview program
Video clip of Gentlemen’s Club from the Oprah Winfrey Show segment as well
as the Brazilian clip.
Dress requirements are discussed (white shirt and tie).
Permission slips are given out with specific return date.
Module 3
Introduction of Club Requirements
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Weekly progress reports
Point system
Review of suspension list
Gentlemen’s Club code of conduct
Gentlemen’s Club pledge
Main Points:
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
11
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Module 4
Do you know enough about me to teach me?
Activity: “All About Me Sheet”

This activity engages the participant in an exercise that will enable them to share parts of
themselves with Gentlemen’s Club facilitators.

The objective is to gather as much information about club members as possible. The
more you know about them, the better!
Module 5
I am from!
Activity: “All About Me Sheet, II”
 Gentlemen’s Club pledge
 Speaker – Establishing Change
 Focus: Behavior
Module 6
Selection of Officers:



President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer
Review progress reports, point sheets and suspension list
Review Roberts Rule of Order
Module 7

Guest Speaker – Peer Pressure

Focus: Behavior

Review progress reports, point sheet and suspension list

Review Roberts Rule of Order
Main Points:
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
12
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Module 8
Table Etiquette Course


Lesson One
Focus: Exposure
Module 9
Table Etiquette Course

Lesson Two
Module 10
Table Etiquette Course

Lesson Three
Module 11
Table Etiquette Course



Lesson Four – Review
Focus: Field Trip Behavior
Points review to determine member eligibility to participate in culminating activity.
Module 12
Culminating Activity


Dinner at a restaurant
Include guest speakers and mentors in this activity, as well as the sister version Club.
Main Points:
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
13
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Module 13
Long-Term Goal Planning



Focus: Visualization
Activity #2: Goal Statement Review
Example: I am going to _________________________________.
Module 14
Respect
 Focus: Accountability
 Gentlemen’s Club members are led in a discussion on reciprocal-respect. The focus of
this session is to center on respecting “self” first.
 Activity: On one sheet of paper, each member must write down their plan for
respecting self and others on a daily basis.
Module 15
Eagle Discussion
 Focus: Attitude
 Activity: Read/present the story “The Eagles Who Thought They Were Chickens” by
Mychal Wynn and discuss behavior parallels.
Module 16


Field Trip: Art Gallery, Museum, Cultural Center
Focus: Range of Interest
Module 17
Roberts Rules of Order


Focus: Democratic Process
Activity: Speaker / mentor to take members through the process of conducting an
effective meeting
Main Points:
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
14
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Module 18
Academic Study Skills



Focus: Persistence
Activity: Learning Styles Review
Multiple Intelligence
Personality Type Review
Good/Bad Study Habits
Module 19



Focus: Communication Skills
Activity: Written exercise is to be presented orally in front of group.
Topic selection will be screened by facilitator.
Module 20
Developing A Positive Self-Concept
 Focus: Affirmation
 Activity: Participants are led through Exercise #5 – Self-Concept Exercise
Module 21
Helping those that are Physically Challenged
 Focus: Compassion
 Each member must choose a handicap that he will endure for a day.
 The following day, he will assist a physically-challenged student/person.
Main Points:
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
15
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Module 22
Community Service
 Focus: Service to Others
 Gentlemen’s Club participants are led through a discussion on the value of service to the
community.
 Plan is developed with participant input.
Module 23
 Field Trip/Television Studio or Music Studio
 Focus: Range of Interest
 Student will visit TV or music studio and watch news being done or recording in session.
Prepared questions will be asked after tour.
Module 24
Gentlemen’s Club/Writing Exercise


Activity: Reflection
Each gentleman is to complete a one page rap or poem for the following:
A.
What does it mean to be smart?
B.
What does it mean to be successful?
C.
What does it mean to be determined?
D.
What do I admire most and why?
Main Points:
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
16
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
If I can
Believe…
I Can Achieve.
Governor Parris Glendening and
local Gentlemen’s Club President.
17
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
- End of Year Celebration -
"Living Out My Dream"

FOCUS: Tenacity

ACTIVITY: Reception will be held for community members who have
overcome obstacles and are living out their dreams and aspirations.
Other Gentlemen’s Club Module Topics
Include:

Honesty

Justice

Loyalty

Dealing with feelings

Holidays/Celebrations

Courtesy

Current Events

Understanding myself and others

Resolving conflict

Understanding similarities and differences

Respecting the rights of others

Style & Consistency

Preparing for middle school/high school/college

Decision making
18
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
A
ppendix
 Sample Letters
 Suggested Events
 Suggested Speakers
 Gentlemen’s Club Certificate of Completion
 Gentlemen’s Club Membership Cards
 Gentlemen’s Club Mentors
 Inspired to Learn Foundation – Gentlemen’s Club Foundation
 Certificate of Completion of Gentlemen’s Club Training
 Bibliography of Dream Related Books and Materials
19
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
P
roducts
 Curriculum Binder for Students
 Teacher’s Guide
 Videotape of Oprah/Brazilian Segments
 Gentlemen’s Club T-Shirts
 Gentlemen’s Club Poem
 Gentlemen’s Club Pledge
 Gentlemen’s Club Code of Conduct
 Gentlemen’s Club Ring
 Gentlemen’s Club Jacket
 Gentlemen’s Club Poster
 Trademark Gentlemen’s Club: Building Dreams
 Gentlemen’s Club Baseball Cap
20
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
F
uture Activities
 Annual Retreat
 Certified Trainers Week Long Session
 Summer Camp
 Gentlemen’s Club Alumni Basketball Game
21
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Exercise #1
Do You Know Enough About Me To Teach Me?
All About Me
My name is _____________________________________________________________.
My favorite color is _______________________________________________________.
My best friend’s name is __________________________________________________.
My favorite subject in school is _____________________________________________.
There are ____________________ children in my family.
My goal in life is to become a ______________________________________________.
After I finish high school, I want to __________________________________________.
My favorite role model is __________________________________________________.
The best thing about my school is __________________________________________.
My favorite teacher is ____________________________________________________.
If I could change one thing about my school, it would be _______________________.
My favorite thing to do after school is ________________________________________.
I really need help with ____________________________________________________.
I would love to receive ____________________________________________ as a gift.
My favorite food is ______________________________________________________.
Two words that describe me are ____________________________________________.
My worst fear is _________________________________________________________.
A teacher I respect is _____________________________________________________.
I feel ____________________________________________________ about my family.
I feel __________________________________________________ about where I live.
I am good at ___________________________________________________________.
22
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
I Am From!
All About Me, II
PLACES
FOOD
TV SHOWS
PEOPLE
EVENTS
PHRASES
GOOD TIMES
MUSIC
DIFFICULT EXPERIENCES
DEFINING MOMENTS
23
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Exercise #2
Exercise #3
Gentlemen’s Club Goal Statement
1.
I am going to ___________________________________________________.
2.
I know that I have the power to do that.
3.
I know that I will make mistakes, but that will not discourage me from striving
for perfection.
4.
I know that if I don’t quit, I cannot fail.
5.
I am going to ___________________________________.
6.
I know that I have the power to do that.
7.
I will accept help from those who wish to help me.
8.
If I fall short of my goal, I will try again.
9.
I am going to ________________________________________________.
10.
I know that I have the power to do that.
24
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Exercise #4
If I Believe I can
______
(goal)
I can Achieve
_______
(goal)
,
,
Have each Gentlemen’s Club participant write a goal in the space provided.
This exercise should be repeated daily as an affirmation to participants. Placing
this on the wall of a bedroom or bathroom would be good place to post this
positive affirmation.
25
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Exercise #5
Gentlemen’s Club Writing Exercise
Each gentlemen is to complete a one page rap or poem
for the following:
a.
What does is mean to be smart?
b.
What does it mean to be successful?
c.
What does it mean to be determined?
d.
Who do I admire and why?
At the next Gentlemen’s Club meeting, one-on-one and group discussion should be led
by the group’s facilitator.
26
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Exercise #6
Gentlemen’s Club
Self-Concept Exercise
\
1.
I believe in myself because
______________________________________________________________.
2.
Others believe in me because _____________________________________.
3.
I believe I’m smart because _______________________________________.
4.
Others believe I’m smart because __________________________________.
5.
I believe I will accomplish a lot in my life because
__________________________________________________________.
6.
My teachers believe I am smart because ____________________________.
7.
My parents believe in me because _________________________________.
8.
My biggest challenge is __________________________________________.
9.
My best feature is _______________________________________________.
10.
My friends see me as ___________________________________________.
27
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Exercise #7
 Discuss the following poem with your students or son.
 Discuss parallels to the everyday life of participant.
What is a Man?
A man is strong
His strength comes from within
strength that is sometimes more powerful than the physical strength
others boast of…
A man is a survivor
He tries over and over again when things
don’t go his way.
A man is a protector
Always attempting to keep safe those
he loves and cares for.
A man is a gift
When he is responsible, respectable
and comfortable with who he truly is.
A man is you ….
Stephen G. Peters
28
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Exercise #8
Understanding Myself and Others
I am similar to my classmates in the following ways.



I am different from my classmates in the following ways.



I am similar to my teacher in the following ways.



I am different from my teacher in the following ways.



29
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Exercise #9
Who Is The Most ………?
Rank the following from 1-8 (1being the strongest)
1.
Popular
_______________
2.
Athletic
_______________
3.
Smartest
_______________
4.
Good Looking
_______________
5.
Kind
_______________
6.
The one who has the
most “stuff”
_______________
7.
Humorous
_______________
8.
Interesting
_______________
30
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Exercise #10
IMAGE
Mom
Who Am I
Personality
Color of Eyes
Color of Hair
Interests/hobbies
Face
Goals
Sense of humor
Temperament
Complexion
31
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Dad
Relative
Exercise #11
NASDAQ
IS NOT A “Rapper’s Name!
1.
What is NASDAQ?
2.
How did you find out about it?
3.
How can it be helpful to you?
4.
What will you do with knowledge about it?
5.
Will you tell others in your family?
6.
How can this be tied to our desire for you to attend
college?
7.
Before you were told, what did you think NASDAQ
was?
32
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
If I Can
… I Can
Freelance producer Tracey
Scruggs-Yearwood (2nd from
left) on assignment for The
Oprah Winfrey Show.
I believe in
myself
And
know I can achieve
success
in many things I do.
I will
always put forth my best effort
in all that I do.
33
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Welcome To Success
A place where we always
try to do our best.
We respect and support each other.
We may be children,
But we have great dreams.
Working together we can be successful.
We will never laugh or put another down.
Welcome to success.
A place where we always
try to do our best.
34
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Our Gentlemen’s Club Pledge
Elementary
Put Your
Picture Here!
I like myself today.
I like myself today.
I like myself today.
That is why
I am going to be
good to me today.
I pledge to learn as much as I can
From my teachers and others.
I pledge to be as good as I can be. (Shout!)
I pledge to be as good as I can be (Shout!)
And know that I am smart!
35
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Dreams and
Aspirations
Board
Head football coach from local university
chats with Gentlemen Club members
about sports and higher education.
Objectives

examine career aspirations

enhance writing skills

structure cooperative learning groups
Materials Needed

Newspapers

Magazines
36
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Sample Letter to Restaurant
Dear ________________________:
We are working with a group of students at our school who are part of a program called The
Gentlemen’s Club. They are learning how to take responsibility for their own actions and set
personal goals.
Other components include posture, grooming, etiquette and how to properly
conduct themselves in fine restaurants such as yours.
We cannot afford the standard prices of a fine restaurant, so we would like to request that
you allow us to dine at your restaurant, with chaperones of course, at a discounted rate to make it
affordable for all of the members of our program. The students and chaperones would total
approximately ______________ people.
If you are able to accommodate our request, please indicate what the discount would be from
your normal menu prices. Thereby each of our students would be prepared to pay the appropriate
amount, plus tax, and gratuity.
If you are unable to honor our request, we would still like to receive one of your menus
because we are collecting them from the finest restaurants in town to practice ordering skills, paying
the check, and computing the gratuity.
We anxiously await your response.
Sincerely,
37
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Sample Letter to Professionals
Dear ______________________:
We have a group of students at our school/in our community who are a part of a program
called The Gentlemen’s Club. They have been experimenting with different mediums and will be
doing more extensive work that parallels other art curriculum instruction throughout the school year.
We would appreciate hearing from a professional like you who could share with us your
unique insight.
We are also looking for mentors who can guide students on a continual basis throughout the
school year. This could mean as little as one visit per month to a class or a Gentlemen’s Club
meeting.
Some of the topics that our students are interested in learning more about are:
-
T-shirt art and airbrushing
-
Fine art originals and reproductions
-
Caricature drawings and cartoon illustrations
-
Computer graphics
-
Greeting cards
-
Sculptures
-
Book illustrations
We eagerly anticipate any information you can share with us.
Sincerely,
38
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Activity
Guest Speaker Wall of Fame
Objective:
Provide a special location for posting information regarding the guest
speakers who share with the group throughout the year.
Materials
 Construction Paper
 Scissors
 Boarder
39
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Dreams and Aspiration Book List
1.
Date ______________________
Title ________________________________
Author ______________________________
2.
Date ______________________
Title ________________________________
Author ______________________________
3.
Date ______________________
Title ________________________________
Author ______________________________
40
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
People Who Can Help Me
Achieve
My Dreams
& Aspirations
Name ________________________________________________________________
Occupation ____________________________________________________________
Address _______________________________________________________________
Telephone Number (_____)________________________________________________
How they can help me: ___________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
41
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Skills That I’m Developing That Will Help Me
Achieve My Dreams and Aspirations
Skill: __________________________________________________________________
How I will use it: ________________________________________________________
Skill: __________________________________________________________________
How I will use it: ________________________________________________________
Skill: __________________________________________________________________
How I will use it: _________________________________________________
Skill: _________________________________________________________________
How I will use it: ________________________________________________________
42
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
City Government
A
ctivity
Objectives:
 Teach students how local government works.
 Provide students with practical experience in the local legislative process.
 Teach students how to utilize the legislative and local administrative process to
achieve their dreams and aspirations
Materials Needed:
 None required.
43
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Guest Speaker’s Questions
Date _____________________ Speaker’s Name_____________________________
1.
What special schools or training do you need?
2.
What is the most exciting part of what you do?
3.
Who were the most influential people in your life in helping you pursue your dreams?
4.
What were some of the obstacles and challenges you had to overcome?
5.
How old were you when you decided to pursue your dream?
6.
What are some of the personal benefits in what you do?
7.
What are some of the financial rewards?
8.
What are the best schools or training programs in your field?
9.
What advice would you give to us?
10.
If you were our age, would you still choose what you do today?
44
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
PostAssessment
A
ctivity
Objectives:
 Survey students’ interest in the learning experiences.
 Help students synthesize the knowledge gained from the activities they’ve engaged in.
 Allow students an opportunity to evaluate the learning experience along with the
facilitator.
Materials Needed:
 Student Evaluation Form
45
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Student Survey
1.
What were your dreams and aspirations at the beginning of this school year?
2.
Describe how your dreams and aspirations have changed as a result of the
Gentlemen’s Club process.
3.
Describe how your facilitations have been supportive of your dreams and
aspirations.
4.
Describe how students, counselors, and other people at your school have
been supportive of your dreams and aspirations.
5.
What types of things did you learn in school this year that will help you to
achieve your dreams and aspirations?
46
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Gentlemen’s Club Weekly Progress Report
Name:_______________________________
Date:______________________
Teacher Advisory (T.A.) (Please circle one)
English (Please circle one)
Absences:________ Tardiness:_______
Participation:
Good
Average
Poor
Behavior:
Behavior:
Good
Average
Poor
Teacher Signature:______________________________
Homework:
Good
Average
Poor
Comments:____________________________________
Teacher Signature:______________________________
Good
Average
Poor
Comments:____________________________________
History (Please circle one)
Math (Please circle one)
Participation:
Good
Average
Poor
Participation:
Good
Average
Poor
Behavior:
Good
Average
Poor
Behavior:
Good
Average
Poor
Homework:
Good
Average
Poor
Homework:
Good
Average
Poor
Teacher Signature:______________________________
Teacher Signature:______________________________
Comments:____________________________________
Comments:____________________________________
Science (Please circle one)
Geology (Please circle one)
Participation:
Good
Average
Poor
Participation:
Good
Average
Poor
Behavior:
Good
Average
Poor
Behavior:
Good
Average
Poor
Homework:
Good
Average
Poor
Homework:
Good
Average
Poor
Teacher Signature:______________________________
Teacher Signature:______________________________
Comments:____________________________________
Comments:____________________________________
__________ (Please circle one)
_________ (Please circle one)
Participation:
Good
Average
Poor
Participation:
Good
Average
Poor
Behavior:
Good
Average
Poor
Behavior:
Good
Average
Poor
Homework:
Good
Average
Poor
Homework:
Good
Average
Poor
Teacher Signature:______________________________
Teacher Signature:______________________________
Comments:____________________________________
Comments:____________________________________
Reviewed by: ____________________________________ Date: ____________
Reviewer’s Signature: ______________________________Date: ___________
Student’s Signature: _______________________________Date: ___________
47
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Gentlemen’s Club Point Sheet
EXAMPLE
Week of:
Name
Shirt/Tie
Progress
Report
Behavior
Shirt/Tie
Progress
Report
Behavior
Week of:
Name
48
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
49
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
I.
The Basics
II.
Table Appointments
III.
Eating Styles
IV.
Deadly Disasters and How to Handle Them
50
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
I. The Basics
Etiquette (ET – uh – kt): Behaving in a courteous, culturally accepted way. Good manners.
In the 1880’s, a definition for good manners, which is still acceptable, was “Intelligent kindness,
based on consideration for other people rather than ourselves.”
Meals (family or in public) should be a pleasurable occasion. The following items are a basic guide to
follow to make mealtime pleasant and enjoyable for everyone.
a.
Arrive promptly for meals – never keep the host/hostess waiting. This will
ensure food being served at the appropriate temperature.
b.
Be considerate in helping with before and after meal chores. Don’t just hop up
from the table leaving your dishes (unless you are in a restaurant). Be sure to clean up
after yourself. (It will go a long way in receiving more invitations to eat out!)
c.
It is considered rude to not participate in table conversation. Share in, but be
attentive to the subject of conversation. Don’t concentrate on problems or bring up
unpleasant topics such as blood and guts.
d.
Mealtime should not be a time to rush and be anxious. Relax and enjoy your
food, family and/or friends.
e.
Never blow your nose at the table. Excuse yourself to the restroom if you must.
f.
If you have to sneeze or cough, cover your nose and mouth with your napkin and
turn your head away from the table. Remember… cover your nose and mouth.
g.
When chewing food, by all means keep your mouth closed. Nothing looks so
unpleasant as to look at someone at another table (or the one you are sitting at) with
food coming out of his/her mouth.
h.
Please, do not talk with food in your mouth...whatever you have to say can wait
until your mouth is clear. If you absolutely have to say something, gracefully place your
napkin in front of your mouth when you speak.
i.
Don’t let your eyes be bigger than your stomach. If you put the food on your
plate, eat it. It is unfair to your parent, host or hostess for you to waste it.
j.
Bring the fork up to your mouth to eat. Don’t bring your head down to the place
or bowl.
k.
Eat with poise. Don’t shovel the food into your mouth as though you had never
eaten before.
Be sure not to blow on food to cool it.
l.
51
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
The Basics – cont.
m.
n.
You should only cut up a few pieces of food at a time – don’t cut it all up at one
time.
Break off and butter a small piece of bread at a time. You should not butter the
whole piece and bite off of it.
o.
Use the serving utensils provided to serve yourself not your own flatware.
p.
Open your napkin in half and lay it across your lap.
q.
Before getting up from the table while others are eating say “Excuse me please.”
r.
Remove seeds (such as watermelon or grapes) from your mouth with a spoon –
never spit them out.
s.
Combing your hair at the table is a “no-no”.
t.
Always pass food on a serving plate. Don’t pick food up (such as rolls) with
your fingers.
u.
When you have finished eating, your napkin should be placed beside your plate,
not balled up in your plate.
v.
A gentleman always stands when a lady approaches his table.
52
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
I.
TABLE APPOINTMENTS
Four Course Semi-formal
American Style
1.
2.
3.
4.
Soup Spoon
Salad Knife
Salad Fork
Dinner Knife
5.
6.
7.
8.
Dinner Fork
Dessert Spoon
Dessert Fork
Butter Knife
Notes:
The place setting for one person is called a cover.
The basic rule of thumb is to work the flatware from the outside in.
53
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
3.
EATING STYLES
American Style
The fork is held in left hand with the tines down. The knife is in the right hand only to cut
the food.
After the food is cut, the knife is placed on the side of the plate, cutting edge facing the
center of the plate. The fork is returned to the right hand to eat. This process is
repeated until you have finished cutting your food.
Continental (or European) Style
A right-handed person would hold the knife in the right hand and the fork in the left hand.
Food is cut and eaten without changing hands. This style is easier and becoming more
popular with American executives.
54
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Resting Position
When you have stopped eating for a period of time (maybe to go to the restroom) you
should have your flatware in the resting position. This alerts the waiter or waitress that
you have not yet finished and your plate will not be taken away. The tines of the fork are
down resting over the blade of the knife.
Finished Position
To indicate that you have finished eating, the fork (tines down) and knife should be
placed side by side on the lower right side of the plate.
55
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
IV. DEADLY DISASTERS AND HOW TO HANDLE THEM
Even though you try hard to be careful, occasionally, an accident occurs at the dinner table. Don’t
laugh, run out of the room or apologize twenty times! These things do happen. If things don’t always go the
way you had hoped…
STAY CALM!
Now suppose:
a.
Your hostess has served you something that you are allergic to. Don’t make a scene.
Simply say, “No, thank you, I don’t care for any”.
b.
You burp at the table (or someone else does): DON’T LAUGH! Simply say “excuse me”
and don’t bring attention to yourself. Keep your mouth closed and if possible cover your
mouth with your napkin…it helps to keep the sound muffled.
c.
You are dining at someone’s home or in a restaurant and you see a foreign object in your
food (a bug or hair), don’t yell and say “gross!”. Simply bring it to the waiter’s (or
waitress’) attention…it will be replaced. If at someone’s home, quietly mention it to the
hostess.
d.
Chicken is served. You should not pick it up with your fingers unless you are at a picnic.
e.
Corn-on-the-Cob: You may securely hold both ends with your fingers and eat.
f.
Spaghetti: A small amount of spaghetti should be picked up with the fork and wound
using a spoon for assistance. It should never be slurped up into your mouth from the
plate.
g.
Soup: Let the soup cool naturally – don’t blow it. The soupspoon should be worked
away from you and not towards you when eating. Resist from picking the bowl up to
pour those last drops into your mouth.
56
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
NOTES
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
57
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Sample Forms
Gentlemen’s Club
Salisbury Middle School
607 Morris Street
Salisbury, Maryland 21801
(410) 677-5149
{DATE}
Dear Gentlemen’s Club Applicant,
I am pleased that you have expressed an interest in being a member of the GENTLEMEN’S
CLUB at Salisbury Middle School. I have received over 100 applications thus far; however, I am
unable to include everyone at this time. I will begin the club with a membership of 25 young men
and will expand this membership total throughout the school year. Your name has been placed on
the waiting list for immediate approval as soon as membership opportunities become available.
I look forward to working with you as a future member of the GENTLEMEN’S CLUB.
Please continue to “DO THE RIGHT THING.” I will meet with you soon.
Sincerely,
Stephen Peters, Principal
58
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Sample Forms
Gentlemen’s Club
Salisbury Middle School
607 Morris Street
Salisbury, Maryland 21801
(410) 677-5149
{DATE}
Dear Parents,
I am pleased to announce that your son has been selected to be part of the GENTLEMEN’S
CLUB at Salisbury Middle School. Club members will meet with their advisors on Tuesdays and
Wednesdays from 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. As a member of this club, the young men are required to
wear dress pants, a white shirt and tie every Monday. Dress days begin next Monday,
________________________________________.
There will be photo, video or interview opportunities throughout the year for the members
of the GENTLEMEN’S CLUB. Before we begin our activities, we must first receive your written
permission. If you are in agreement with this program and its upcoming activities and opportunities,
please sign the release form below. This form must be returned to me by
______________________________.
Congratulations to you and your son for his selection into the GENTLEMEN’S CLUB. I
hope you will find the time in your busy schedules to become involved in some of our activities.
Sincerely,
Stephen Peters, Principal
_________________________________________________ has my permission to participate in
the GENTLEMEN’S CLUB at Salisbury Middle School. I also give permission for my son to be
photographed, videotaped or interviewed to inform the public or highlight special events held at the
school or in the community.
________________________________________________
Parent Signature
59
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
________________________
Date
Sample Forms
Gentlemen’s Club
Salisbury Middle School
607 Morris Street
Salisbury, Maryland 21801
(410) 677-5149
{DATE}
____________________________________________ has my permission to be videotaped,
student’s name
photographed, and interviewed as a student representative of Salisbury Middle School. I understand
that the video, photograph or interview may be used to inform the public or highlight special events
held at the school.
_______________________________________
Print Parent’s Name
_______________________________________
Parent’s Signature
60
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
_________________________
Date
Sample Forms
Gentlemen’s Club
Salisbury Middle School
607 Morris Street
Salisbury, Maryland 21801
(410) 677-5149
Office of the Principal
{DATE}
Dear______________________________,
Due to the fact that you have a number of unexcused absences from Gentlemen’s Club meetings,
along with concerns about your attitude and behavior, it was decided by the body of the Gentlemen’s
Club group that you be released from the club.
We wish you success in all your endeavors in the future.
Sincerely,
Stephen G. Peters
Principal
61
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Sample Forms
SALISBURY STATE UNIVERSITY
GENTLEMEN’S CLUB FIELD TRIP
WHO?:
All members of the Gentlemen’s Club who are in good standing.
WHAT?:
Field Trip to SSU:
Football coach speak to GC prior to trip to SSU Campus.
Tour of the campus (athletic facilities)
Tours led by SSU Football players
Dinner at The Commons (SSU Dining Hall)
Attend SSU Varsity Basketball Games
WHEN?:
Coach Wood speaks – Wednesday; 12/1/99
Campus Tour – Monday, 12/6/99
3:30 – 4:15 p.m.
3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Dinner – Monday, 12/6/99
5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Basketball Games , 12/6/99
6:00 – 9:30 p.m.
WHERE?:
12/1/99
12/6/99
Salisbury Middle School
SSU Campus
WHY?:




Students will have an opportunity to experience life on a college campus
Students will have an opportunity to interact with a college coach and athletes
Students will learn the academic requirements and expectations for college admission
Salisbury Middle School will have an opportunity to establish a partnership with students and
staff at SSU
62
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Sample Forms
SPORTS SPECTACULAR
Permission Slip
__________________________________ has my permission
to participate in the trip to Salisbury State University on
____________________, ______________________________.
I understand that he will take a tour of the campus, eat dinner at The
Commons Dining Hall and will attend a men’s basketball game. My
son will be escorted by the advisors of the Gentlemen’s Club.
_______________________________
Parent’s Signature
63
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
_________________
Date
Sample Forms
WHO?:
Members of the Gentlemen’s Club
WHAT?:
Create a Club Logo (artwork)
WHEN?:
Complete the assignment on your own time
WHY?:
 To design a symbol that is synonymous with the mission of the
Gentlemen’s Club
 To use the design on GC letterhead and/or clothing
HOW?:
 Winning Design will be selected by committee.
 Winner will be recognized for achievement.
DEADLINE: TBA
**Return Entry to Mr. Peters
64
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Sample Forms
AMERICAN EDUCATION WEEK TOUR GUIDES
The members of the Gentlemen’s Club will be serving as tour guides
for our visitors on _____________________________.
Teachers are asked to please refer to the schedule below and dismiss
those students at the beginning of the period. The GC members
understand that all work must be completed within the teachers’
established time frame.
Period 1: Donte’ White
Paris Parker
Period 2: Lamont Cooper
Dionte Dutton
Period 3: Edwin Lashley
Aaron Carey
Period 4: Terrell Deshields
Brian Black
Period 5: Tyrone Smith
Cornell Johnson
Period 6: Tyron Jarrett
Lamar Trotter
Period 7: Jervonta’ Wright
Samuel Arumala
65
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Sample Forms
Ladies’ Club Members
Gentlemen’s Club Members
Dear Parents,
Your daughter has been invited to join me at the WICOMIO Youth
and Civic Center on Monday, _____________________ to see the
Globetrotter performance. Parents are responsible for transportation
to and from the event. Participants must arrive at 5:15 and be picked
up by 9:30. Please sign the permission slip below if your
daughter/son plans to attend.
Sincerely,
Stephen Peters
SMS Principal
___________________________ has my permission to attend the
globetrotter performance on ___________________________ at the
WICOMICO Youth and Civic Center. I will provide transportation to
and from the event.
_______________________
Date
66
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
Lisa Thomas-Vernon, Social Worker, Centennial High School
ince August 1999, I have been a social worker at Centennial High School. I
would like to inform you of an exciting event that recently occurred in my life.
While watching the Oprah Show on October 20, I was inspired by a
middle school principal, Mr. Peters, who appeared in a segment entitled,
“Remembering Your Spirit.” Mr. Peters started an etiquette group at his school called
the Gentlemen’s Club. This group consists of male students who have had several
disciplinary infractions, as well as academic deficits. Mr. Peters meets with these
gentlemen once a week and requires them to dress in shirts and ties. He has shown
the students how to earn the respect of their teachers and peers, and as a result, the
students’ disciplinary and academic records have improved.
I contacted the Oprah Show via e-mail to get more information about Mr.
Peters and his Gentlemen’s Club. In November, I started a Gentlemen’s Club at
Centennial High School, and while we are still in the beginning stages, I feel the club
can be successful in helping some of our own at-risk young men.
Oprah’s producers contacted me and asked me to appear in an
episode showcasing viewers who were inspired by the
“Remembering Your Spirit” segment. So, on December 24,
1999, I was briefly seen on the Oprah Show discussing
Centennial’s Gentlemen’s Club. This was a great
opportunity to give some positive attention to both
Centennial High School and the Unit 4 School District.
67
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
GC
Other Books by Stephen G. Peters

Do You Know Enough About Me To Teach Me? Stephen G. Peters

Do You Know Enough About Me To Teach Me-Workbook? Stephen G.

Inspired To Learn: Why We Must Give Children Hope. Stephen G.

Gentlemen’s Club Curriculum Guide. Stephen G. Peters

Ladies Club Curriculum Guide. Stephen & Angela Peters
ISBN 0-944514-92-8
Peters
Peters
ISBN 1-880463-08-3
68
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
________________________________________________________________________
About The Peters Group Foundation
The Peters Group Foundation is a 501c (3) non-profit organization
dedicated to preventing teenage school drop-outs, low self-esteem and teen
imprisonment, while focusing on the importance of a sound education,
providing positive choice options, lifelong learning, productive citizenship
and breaking the generational cycle of welfare.
We support activities and community projects that are in line with goals
and objectives of the Foundation. The Gentlemen’s Club and The Ladies
Club are signature programs. Our foundation is funded by grants, private
donations and contributions. If you would like to provide a donation to
The Peters Group Foundation, please contact us immediately. We are eager
to discuss our national need for continued programming and academic
assistance for youth in today's society.
Capture, Inspire, Teach
Saving America’s Children”
Please contact us to start a Ladies Club or Gentlemen’s Club in your school
or community.
The Peters Group
www.stephenpetersgroup.com
petersgroup1@aol.com
803-516-6097
803-516-6195 (fax)
2868 Columbia Rd.
Orangeburg, SC 29118
69
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.
About the Author
Stephen G. Peters
tephen G. Peters, former classroom teacher at a Virginia Blue Ribbon
School, Assistant Principal at a National Blue Ribbon School, and principal
of a Virginia Blue Ribbon School, is currently Director of Secondary
Education in Wicomico County, Maryland.
Mr. Peters led the 1100 student Lafayette-Winona Middle School, once marred
by violence and tragically low test scores, into recognition as a Virginia Blue
Ribbon School. Through a partnership with teachers and the school
community, Mr. Peters and his team conceptualized effective intervention
strategies like “The Gentlemen’s Club,” as a means of capturing children,
inspiring their dreams, and giving them hope.
Inspiring children to learn is not a new concept but an age-old truth. “Capture
them, inspire them, and teach them.” Mr. Peters has shared his practical
strategies, philosophies, beliefs, and message of hope with organizations and
school districts throughout the United States and has been featured on such
television programs as the Oprah Winfrey Show, and “America, America.”
“Capture them, inspire them, and teach them.”
70
Copyright © 2006. The Peters Group. All rights reserved.