ST. PETERSBURG, Fla (WFLA) – Lakewood Elementary School in St. Petersburg is looking for male mentors for the 5000 Role Models program.

The 5000 Role Models program hopes to  expose, enhance and enlighten young boys, grades 4 th -5 th , of their self-worth, potential and to various cultural opportunities through relevant lesson topics, field trips and male community member presentations.

On Tuesday August 16th, the school will hold a mentor interest meeting in the auditorium at 6pm.

The goal is to significantly increase academic achievement by 15% and simultaneously reduce discipline problems among 4th and 5th grade boys.

Last year, the program reported between 45 and 50 boys participated.

Between 20 – 25 boys attended after school meetings.

About 10 boys were unable to join the program because there wasn’t enough male mentors to serve 55-60 boys.  This year, boys will be selected by school administrators.

To be a part of the mentoring program,  you have to be able to attend bi-weekly meetings on Wednesdays from 3:40 – 4:30 p.m.

Mentor Meetings  take place bi-weekly during lunch or dinner. The meeting day is at the mentor’s discretion.

Mentors will discuss academic achievement and appropriate school behavior.

Other topics will include various activities to reinforce the lesson focus.

Lessons will be presented during group meetings:

  • How to tie a necktie
  • Table Etiquette/Manners —
  • Public Speaking
  • Your Word is Your Bond
  • Integrity
  • Money Matters
  • Hygiene
  • Keeping Your Body Clean
  • Who do Your Clothes Say You Are?
  • A Nicely Groomed Gentleman Potential Discussion Topics
  • Healthy Diet
  • What You Put Into Your Body
  • Getting Enough Rest
  • Are You Listening (How to Really Listen)
  • How to Interact with Others
  • Personal Leadership
  • Your Morning Routine
  • Your Family & Friends

For more information or to volunteer, contact Cedric Ferrell at ferrellc@pcsb.org