FAME

It's a well-documented fact a child's performance in school can be strongly affected by a lack of self-esteem. That's why many disadvantaged children struggle in school.
In Hillsborough county, there is a unique program at one elementary school.. designed to help raise a child's self-esteem.. through art. It's called "Fame."

In "Assignment: education".. I will take us to Desoto Elementary, where "Fame" is helping children discover their talents and themselves.

It's another Wednesday afternoon at Desoto Elementary. And for approximately 90 youngsters, that means having a good time in a special after-school program called Fame.. which stands for family, arts, and multicultural enrichment.

--[Instructor Minette Webster says:] "If you want hair, you can pull it down.."

Volunteers from "Artists Unlimited", like Minette Webster, come to Desoto once-a-week to show children how to create.. anything and everything.. From clay masks, to pottery, to painting and more.

--[Webster says:] "They just create something they never done before. Most of these children have never been exposed to anything like that."--

Which is important for children who are considered at-risk.. letting them know they have talent. "Fame's" Coordinator says since the inception of the program at Desoto three-years ago.. many of the students have improved their grades and chool attendance.

--[Coordinator Maida Millan says:] "We have proven through out program that creative problem-solving leads to a build up in self-esteem. Allowing them to see diversity is good. That it's okay to have ideas. That it's okay to be different."--

In other words.. "Fame" lets children know there is real meaning to the phrase "Beauty in the eye of the beholder.".. even when your trying to create your own self-image in a clay mask.

--[Bill says to boy:] "That's the biggest nose in this room." [boy laughs. Then Bill says:] "Do you think you have a big nose?" [boy laughs]. Bill Ratliff, Newschannel eight.

The Fame program at Desoto costs a little less than 10-thousand dollars a year. The money comes from the state, Hillsborough county and out-of-state grants.

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