Experts agree, I AM 4 Kids is a ground-breaking program that will have a dramatic impact on the educational system in the U.S. Teachers, Social Workers, Administrators, Child Psychologists and others all back the I AM 4 Kids Program.
The following are just a few of the expert endorsements I AM 4 Kids has received.
“As a leader in both public and private educational organizations for over 7 years, I have had the opportunity to review, approve and see the outcomes for many instructional programs. Programs I have seen presented to educators promise many things, from improved scores to easy-to-use differentiated instruction. But many times the programs are teacher-focused, rather than student-focused. I am pleased to say the ‘I AM 4 Kids’ program, developed by Mark Papadas, is a strong, student-focused program. This is a truly interactive curriculum, with both online and classroom components. By tapping into each individual’s sense of identity, the “I AM” program assists both parents and teachers – the real partners in a positive learning environment – in guiding students in the path of self-discovery that will continue as they continue to develop intellectually, emotionally and physically. I have witnessed Mark Papadas move this program from a vision to a reality. His dedication and passion to this project is evidence in the top-quality instruction, materials, and personnel he has brought to bear on this project. His unwavering commitment, even during these trying economic times, is witness to the effective foundation of this program. I recommend the ‘I AM 4 Kids’ program to every educational organization that is committed to developing strong minds, character and bodies. The parents of your students will thank you for this.”
Randy Lawrence Board Vice-President,
Former Curriculum Committee Chair Cary Community Consolidated School District 26 Cary IL
“Recently, I was asked to preview a new, innovative program for kids called, I Am 4 Kids. The program teaches children in grades 2-5 how to build an identity that empowers them to achieve anything they choose to do in their lives. The mission of I AM 4 Kids is, “ to teach kids the skills and strategies used by the most successful people in the world in a fun and engaging way while connecting it to core subjects such as Language Arts, Social Studies, Music and Art.” While that is the program mission, it accomplishes so much more. Mark Papadas has created a program that teachers, therapists, counselors and youth organization leaders can implement with ease. I AM 4 Kids program includes a DVD, lesson plans and worksheets. It also outlines a way for today’s youth to connect with each other via technology, and provides support for ongoing projects (which includes a possible funding source for participants to see their visions materialize). All of these components make implementation of this program a breeze! I have been a school social worker for 15 years and am currently employed by a suburban elementary school district. I am also a mother of 3 sons (ages 10, 9 and 6). As social workers, we try to teach our students to have good self-esteem, set realistic goals and believe you can achieve them. As parents, we try to teach our children to have dreams. I AM 4 Kids does all of that by teaching kids to build an identity, make goals and then “go bigger.” I AM 4 Kids is unique in that it reaches children at a crucial, developmental time in their lives. The program builds a child’s sense of self -worth while his/her identity is in such a critical, formative stage. It’s a framework for the adolescent years. I can imagine the excitement of students building an identity and then connecting with their peers around the nation who may have similar identities and dreams. What an incredible sense of belonging and self-assurance that would create! I not only endorse this program, but anxiously await its release so that I can start using it with the students in my district and my children at home.”
Sincerely, Tracy M. Walsh, MSW, LSW
“I AM 4 Kids is a wonderful program for implementing a desperately needed tool in the lives of children. Using psychologically sound, and well developed techniques related to identity development and the power of goal setting, Mark Papadas gives schools a way to help children actively develop a sense of who they are, and who they want to become. I AM 4 Kids combines solid goal setting techniques with tools for identifying and building healthy identities for children. The benefits of goal setting are so well researched and demonstrated that it is a fundamental piece of any self improvement, personal, or professional development system. To reach a goal, you need to fundamental pieces of information, where you are, and where you want to go. Mark provides solid and engaging tools to help children build a sense of who they are and where they want to go in their lives. If a person is not clear about “who” and “where” they are, they are not likely to achieve their goal. As a psychologist with over 35 years experience doing therapy, and as a father with two grown children, I can honestly say that I wish my children had the benefit of a program like this when they were in grade school. I highly recommend the I AM 4 Kids program.”
Timothy J. Hayes, Psy.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist
“It has been my privilege to know Mark Papadas for several years now and watch his vision, dedication and drive translate into something that may well help save our children, families, neighborhoods, communities, country and world. Yes, that may sound like an overly enthusiastic claim, but the potential for good should never be underestimated! As someone who works with countless parents in a coaching, consulting, and educating capacity, I see the incredible needs of our families. I also train teachers in classroom management. Unfortunately these two pivotal groups often defer to each other [“abdicate”?] with regard to our community’s children. We are losing lots of kids between the cracks. The brilliance of Mark’s program is that it goes to the heart of the matter – the kids themselves ‐ and helps them build a core appreciation of who they are and can become. It reminds me of that old Ragu spaghetti commercial: “IT’S IN THERE.” I’m happy to endorse the educational, inspirational, and motivational benefits of I AM 4 Kids, Inc. As a mother of four, former classroom teacher, parent instructor and teacher trainer, I simply must say it’s about time someone got it right. And I believe Mark has!”
Most Sincerely, Christie Clarke Director, Out‐A‐Box Group, Inc.
“I am writing to thank you for sharing your information concerning your I AM 4 Kids program. I have worked in the educational environment for 15+ years. I have implemented numerous federal and state programs. I can assure you that you that your I AM 4 Kids program is an outstanding program. I have worked with schools that were in very low income areas and schools that were predominately upscale communities. I AM 4 Kids is ideal for any level school, division or district. I feel that you have truly addressed one of the most beneficial educational factors and that is, you truly encourage and empower the student. This will continue to help students throughout their educational and professional lives. I strongly hope that schools take a good look at your I AM 4 Kids program because I am sure that it would have a very positive impact. I strongly believe that is has the potential to help the overall behavioral climate and testing scores, i.e. SOLs, PALs, and etc. It simply boils down to, “you can if you think you can”. I know that is what you are striving for and the I AM 4 Kids program has achieved it. I sincerely wish you the best of luck and I am sure that numerous students will benefit from your program.”
Ordaz Jeter Educational Consultant