By: Sterling Ta’Bon, Healthy Schools Manager & National DSEP Cadre Coordinator
Robert E. Howard Middle School is named after Orangeburg South Carolina’s acclaimed educator, coach, and community leader, Robert E. Howard. Howard was a long-time advocate in a town known for cultivating renowned leaders and efforts in civil rights. He supported youth and athletics for decades till his passing in 2009. But still, standing In the hallways of the school named after him, advocacy is carried on through the Howard Dove Girls. Coordinated by Career Development Facilitator, Yvette Perryman-Brown the Howard Dove Girls have adopted education, practices, and culture that support self-esteem and confidence in girls. The Dove Self-Esteem Project’s turnkey lessons, Confident Me! and My Hair My Crown helped to create spaces where students could learn about themselves, while also learning about the needs of others. Yvette states, “ Howard Dove Girls do more than wear the shirts, we do the work.”
Recently, the Howard Dove Girls participated in the Filling Station Project. Through partnership with their school nurse, the Howard Dove Girls packed food and items to go home with students who may need them. Through efforts of servitude, the Howard Dove Girls have created a community through advocacy for themselves and others. The Dove Self-Esteem Project opens up others to use their skills, connections, and resources to benefit youth. For Yvette and the Howard Dove Girls, they have used the mission of the Dove Self-Esteem Project to impact themselves and others.
Through the implementation of dialogues, activities, and easily administered lessons, the Dove Self-Esteem Project can be a launching pad for further connectivity with youth. Educators like Yvette Perryman-Brown, extend their hours of education to fit the whole student. The Howard Dove Girls will wrap up the year by spending time together, and reflect on how self-confidence leads to greater good for themselves, and others.
Mrs.Yvette Perryman-Brown really does deserve this recognition and more. Her outstanding performance and hardwork with our girls speaks for Mrs. Yvette Perryman-Brown success. I am so delighted that someone recognized her outstanding achievements and great opportunities that she has provided our Dove girls. Congratulations Mrs. Yvette Perryman-Brown and our Dove Girls! We greatly appreciate Mrs. Yvette Perryman-Brown for her outstanding hard work and dedication she rendered to make our Dove Girls a wonderful success! Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!