Kansas City Mentorship Program Combines Haircuts and Reading to Boost Literacy and Confidence

Kansas City Mentorship Program Fosters Literacy and Confidence

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A new mentorship program for students in the Kansas City Public Schools district is making significant strides in promoting reading and self-esteem. The Books And Barbers program, founded by Dr. Christopher McNeil, has been operational for four years, pairing the essential activity of reading with the culturally significant experience of getting a haircut.

What is Books And Barbers?

The Books And Barbers program takes place at George Melcher Elementary School and targets young students who may need extra support in both literacy and personal growth. Dr. McNeil, a former elementary school principal, recognized the gaps in resources available to students when he himself was a child. His personal history, marked by struggles with reading and financial barriers to regular haircuts, inspired him to create this dual-purpose program.

Why is it Important?

The objective of the program is to foster a sense of belonging and promote literacy among students. “I wanted to create an environment so we could increase confidence with students through getting a haircut and also instill a love for reading,” McNeil explained. The motto “Boys love to read too!” encapsulates the program’s mission to change perceptions about reading among young boys, many of whom feel societal pressure to avoid literary pursuits.

How Does it Work?

During the sessions, students engage in reading activities while they receive haircuts. Dr. McNeil’s approach prioritizes discussion and connection with the text, allowing students to relate the stories they read to their own lives. Jayvon Johnson, a sixth grader, shared his experience, stating, “Well, most of the time, I’m not really a reader, but it just feels different this time when I’m actually listening to a good book.” Such feedback highlights the program’s effectiveness in changing attitudes towards reading.

Impact on Students

The positive impacts of this initiative are already visible. By encouraging interactions around books, McNeil promotes critical thinking and comprehension skills. “Scenarios like, ‘Have you ever been embarrassed or dealt with a bully?'” help students connect deeply with the material. Johnson articulated his newfound motivation, saying, “I want to try to take my reading to a whole next level, maybe a bigger chapter book if I can.”

Building Confidence

The transformative power of a haircut in conjunction with reading is notable. Students like Johnson report feeling revitalized, with a boost in self-esteem following their fresh cuts. “All I needed was a lineup, and now how do you feel? I got some courage back,” he remarked. The physical transformation ties in with the mental and emotional growth the program aims to foster.

The Future of the Program

Looking ahead, McNeil is expanding the initiative to include high school students who are training in cosmetology. They will be responsible for cutting the younger students’ hair, thus adding another mentorship layer to the program. This partnership between students helps create a supportive community that encourages both academic and personal growth.

Conclusion

The Books And Barbers program continues to thrive in Kansas City, combining essential life skills with literacy to create well-rounded, confident young individuals. By catering to the unique needs of students, this innovative initiative is paving the way for a brighter future—one haircut and one book at a time.