For the last two years I have attended a scholarship cook out hosted by Doreen and David Moore, but unfortunately I was out of town this year. The cook out is so inspiring that I still wanted to share some information about this year’s scholarship recipients. Keep in mind that funds for the scholarship are raised by the Moores and those who attend this cookout. Each person is asked to make a $15 donation. Not only do the people who attend get a great meal, but they get a nice favor as well.
In the years before I attended the event they awarded one student. Each year they went to a different high school for their awardee. Last year they gave out two awards and were able to do that again this year on July 30. This year’s first recipient was Taylor Marie Eackles, an honor student hoping to pursue a career in sports medicine and physical therapy. She will attend Penn State University. The second recipient was Shawn Taylor. He also is an honor student pursuing a career in engineering and will be attending California University of Pennsylvania. Both students are graduates of Westinghouse High School.
I love attending scholarship events. When I see young people succeeding, it tells me that there is hope for the future of young Black children. At this year’s invite David and Doreen shared this quote, “Miss School and you miss out. Education is the key to success.” I am going to suggest to the Moores that they invite the superintendent to the cookout next year. I think he should see what two people are doing on their own to help our children.
In my personal opinion, and the opinion of a few of my Facebook friends, there is so much that can change in the Pittsburgh Public School system. The schools need to bring back things like home economics, wood shop and auto mechanics. I know that I am using outdated names for the programs, but just look at the world right now and see what these young people like. They like music, clothing, money and cars. Everyone does not have to attend a four-year college. I would love to see courses on how to run a business–remember distributive education? We called it DE and we made products and sold them. That was exciting, at least to me it was. I loved my sewing and cooking classes. You see all these kids running around calling their selves designers and it seems they don’t know the first thing about putting together an outfit. There are so many occupations available now that were totally unheard of even 10 years ago. I can’t pretend that I know how curriculum works or how it is created, but I think something needs to change and quick.
If you are interested in making a contribution to the Moore scholarship program, Dollar Bank secures the account and it is called “Paying it Forward Scholarship Fund,” account number 2671967518 or send in the name of David and Doreen Moore. No gift is too small.
(Email the columnist at debbienorrell@aol.com)
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