Coach builds boys into men- one step at a time
Issue date: 11/15/09 Section: Cover
Melvern requires all members on his stepping squad to complete a bi-weekly progress report which must be signed by teachers and parents or guardians. Before each practice, he enforces an hour of mandatory study hall. Members do homework, study, peer-tutor or attend a study session with their teacher.
Anyone who has a "D" on either progress report or report card is placed on academic probation which denies members to participate in the team's activities until grades improves. Dem' Raider Boyz average GPA is a 3.3.
"Mr. Melvern has taught us that being on the step team will not get you a scholarship or into college; having good grades will get you both," said 17-year-old Jared Jenkins.
Jared's father said he's noticed a major improvement in his son. "He talks about how much he loves school and can't wait to major in business in college and become a CEO of a major company."
Melvern also the boys to participate in weekend community service projects to help others.
"When I get older, I hope to join Big Brother Big Sisters and become a mentor and give back to the youth as Coach does with us," said Kevin Murray, 16.
In 2007, under his leadership Dem' Raider Boyz received the Youth Volunteer Award from the NAACP Washington, DC Branch. That same year, they also bagged the Prince George's County Youth Volunteer Award.
Weekly, Melvern addresses any personal issues the students might be having, including the true meaning of manhood.
"Coach says the size of rims on your car or the number of women you sleep with does not measure your manhood," said Kenneth Harris, 16. "How hard you work and the way you treat others does."
"Mr. Melvern is one of the rare people I know who walks the walk he talks," said Robin Price, vice principal at Eleanor Roosevelt. "His work with these young men speaks volumes of his character as a real man."
Anyone who has a "D" on either progress report or report card is placed on academic probation which denies members to participate in the team's activities until grades improves. Dem' Raider Boyz average GPA is a 3.3.
"Mr. Melvern has taught us that being on the step team will not get you a scholarship or into college; having good grades will get you both," said 17-year-old Jared Jenkins.
Jared's father said he's noticed a major improvement in his son. "He talks about how much he loves school and can't wait to major in business in college and become a CEO of a major company."
Melvern also the boys to participate in weekend community service projects to help others.
"When I get older, I hope to join Big Brother Big Sisters and become a mentor and give back to the youth as Coach does with us," said Kevin Murray, 16.
In 2007, under his leadership Dem' Raider Boyz received the Youth Volunteer Award from the NAACP Washington, DC Branch. That same year, they also bagged the Prince George's County Youth Volunteer Award.
Weekly, Melvern addresses any personal issues the students might be having, including the true meaning of manhood.
"Coach says the size of rims on your car or the number of women you sleep with does not measure your manhood," said Kenneth Harris, 16. "How hard you work and the way you treat others does."
"Mr. Melvern is one of the rare people I know who walks the walk he talks," said Robin Price, vice principal at Eleanor Roosevelt. "His work with these young men speaks volumes of his character as a real man."
Viewing Comments 1 - 4 of 4
Louise
posted 11/17/09 @ 10:02 AM EST
I work w/Richard and he is definitely one of the best assets that we have in our company. GO RICHARD!!!!
Robert D.
posted 11/20/09 @ 3:42 PM EST
I used to be on 'Dem Raider Boyz. Richard is an amazing leader, mentor, and friend. A true inspiration to us all.
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posted 12/24/09 @ 10:13 AM EST
I think that he is a great coach.
soulshadow55
posted 1/11/10 @ 4:14 PM EST
I just had to respond to this article. What wonderful dedication by this young man. He is truly making a difference in the lives of his students/step members. (Continued…)
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