AMBE HOSTS DAVE "JAEGAR" JONES FOR THEIR SCHOOLS AND THE COMMUNITY

Submitted by AMBE

From Tsiothohrhkó:wa/January 21-23, 2015, the Ahkwesahsne Mohawk Board of Education (AMBE) was host to Dave "Jaegar" Jones, and, as he would call them, three of his Turtles: Angela, Darren and Tekwan.

Dave Jones (Ojibwe Tribe) of the Garden River First Nation, Ontario is the founder and owner of Turtle Concepts (TC). Dave is a former teacher who has taught in remote Aboriginal communities. He is a motivational speaker who empowers people of all ages to restore their confidence, to communicate effectively, to become assertive, to be happy, and to make the most out of life. Since 1999, TC has employed many youth and has traveled worldwide sharing workshops with the message that everyone needs to "celebrate their successes!"

Dave spoke to students in Grades 4-8 and also presented to AMBE staff during the scheduled professional development on Tsiothohrhkó:wa/January 23, 2015. An evening session was held on Tsiothohrhkó:wa/January 22, 2015 at the Ahkwesahsne Mohawk School. He spoke about drug and alcohol abuse, teasing and bullying, education, creating happiness, leadership training and re-motivating staff in their workplace. He strongly believes that anyone can change the world and create a better one, most importantly, everyone has the right to feel good about themselves!

Frankie Lafrance, AMBE Youth Worker, who sat through the sessions with students and staff, stated, "Dave's message is to be happy with yourself. If students weren't motivated at the beginning of his presentation, they for sure were at the end." She is grateful that she was able to meet Dave.

AMBE designates days throughout the school year for professional development designed for their staff training needs. The main focus of professional development being offered over the past few years has been on Success for All training. The session provided by Dave was a twist in the typical training that has been offered and it is hoped that everyone can take on the task of "celebrating their successes!"