Expert discusses motivating pupils

FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP- More than 300 community members attended a workshop at the Eisenhower Middle School featuring Rick Lavoie, a popular author and speaker on programs to provide better lives for children who struggle in school.

The workshop was the third in a series organized by the Department of Educational Services and the Freehold Township School District's Parent Involvement Committee and funded by an Inclusion Grant.

Lavoie spoke to parents and educators to provide themwith effectivemotivational strategies and techniques to inspire an individual to reach his or her potential.

Gale Ferraro, supervisor of educational services, said the Freehold Township community was fortunate to have Lavoie offer his expertise.

During his presentation, Lavoie spoke about the differences in learning styles, personalities and maturity levels of students. He explored commonmisconceptions about motivating students who are struggling that are ineffective, such as competition, reward systems and punishment. He said it is important to be understanding and to identify each child's motivational style.

One teacher at the workshop said, "I left the workshop with a better idea about my ability and responsibility to make life brighter, easier and clearer for each of my students."

Another parent/teacher said, "I learned to look at the situation through the child's eyes and it reminded me that my kid is a kid and not a mini adult."

Much of the presentation's focus came from Lavoie's studies. He has published "The Motivational Breakthrough."