Rising to the Challenge - Mayor Flies High

Advancing social and emotional education one kid at a time

May 22, 2009
bubble 3 comments
Submitted by: Paula Schwed

 So many public officials pontificate from afar about what ails education. Not Joe Riley. This is one mayor who genuinely understands what it takes to make schools better for our kids. So it was no surprise to see him standing in a room full of cheering students this week, trying to remember the words to the WINGS Creed so he could collect on a bet and win a $10,000 donation that will advance social and emotional education. Mayor Riley flies high! Watch him here.

Visit WINGS: Read more about what social and emotional education does for kids.

Mayor Riley and Rusty Bennett show off their SEL smarts

On May 26th, 2009 Liz Mester says:
On Monday, Mayor Riley gave a free lesson in social and emotional skills when he recited the WINGS Creed to a packed house. Not only did Mayor Riley memorize our Creed, he delivered a real example of "wanting to learn more about everyone I meet." Rusty Bennett inspired us to "step into their shoes" by showing empathy and generosity to those different from him. And, the WINGS kids gave Mayor Riley and Rusty Bennett so much love and support showing that they know how to be a good friend. All the way around, this event soared - and was a free gift of social and emotional intelligence.

Congrats to Mayor Riley. The

On May 25th, 2009 Bridget Laird says:

Congrats to Mayor Riley. The Creed is 157 words. By him taking the time to memorize it, it shows me he truly cares about the community. And the kids were so great. They truly showed their "support" as he stood before them. As our kids continue to participate in daily social skills activities, things like support, trust and care have become second nature to them. And a BIG THANKS to Rusty. He is such a generous, caring guy and it feels good to have his support!!!

 

Bridget Laird

What an energy boost!

On May 23rd, 2009 cristy mccrery says:
It's almost the end of another school year, and teachers, kids and WINGSLeaders are becoming restless because they're ready for summer! I find that at the end of every year, it's hard to get the kids to focus and energized....until the Mayor came. The kids were so into it and him saying the Creed. They reacted to the Mayor as if he was a celebrity....which he is to WINGS. His help, along with Rusty Bennett's generous donation, showed kids that it doesn't matter how young or old you are, living the Creed can help you and others in so many different ways. I know that is a moment most of those kids will never forget.