“If more parents taught their children to act like Rev. Washington [A Montford Point Marine-one of the first Blacks to serve in the U.S. Marine Corp and a recipient of the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal-the highest honor for a civilian] taught his children to act and they taught their children to act the world would be a much better place. Rest in Peace Pastor Washington and thank you for your service Sir.”
– University S.C. Brenda Graham-Mar 26, 2016 The State of South Carolina-March 26, 2016 News Article
“Youngest son now teaches ‘Manners First’ in public schools”
– The State of South Carolina-March 26, 2016 News Article
“Thank you for passing your father’s valuable lessons [Manners First] on to our students.”
– D. Dusty Blakey, Ed.D, Superintendent
“… like you [Manners First], she has shown a passion (and great success) for working with struggling high school students and getting them connected to employment and/or post-secondary educational opportunities.
I think it will produce great things for our students if the two of you connected and shared ideas and looked-for areas that you can collaborate on. I invite you guys to take it from here!”
– Jon M. Cooper, EdD, Director-Division of Student Services
“Manners First Education Initiative, I just wanted you to know that the Provider Fair today at Wallin has to be one of the best fairs I have attended. Thank you for the invite and if I could be of assistance to you and/or your students, please let me know!”
– R.S.-Employment Navigator 2nd Career Fair
“I’m definitely looking forward to starting a career as a school counselor as soon as possible. You have empowered me and I feel I am a better counselor and person because of your class, it helped provide some personal reflection.”
– Wilmington University Graduate Student
“Dear Manners First Education Initiative- Mr. Pedro Viera, Thank you for the gift card. I am proud that my writing could have a positive impact on my community. I thank you for the opportunity you have given me.”
– CHS student
“Thank you [Manners First Education Initiative] for all of this information. This is wonderful. When my son was at Christiana, I never received any of this information. What a help. Thanks for all of your help. Have a great summer.”
– Parent
“We are so very fortunate to have you with us at Kirk; you are a wonderful influence on our children and a terrific role model. Enjoy this day, [Manners First Education Initiative] Clayton, and thank you for all you do.
– Teacher at Kirk Middle School
“… I know Mr. Washington [Manners First Education Initiative] as a talented educator with a sense of dedication regardless of the difficulty of the task. Clayton possesses all of the attributes to be a successful instructional leader. Highest among these are integrity, intelligence, and sensitivity. As an aspiring administrator, he is dedicated to his profession and motivated to accept new challenges.”
– Former Director of Schools, Colonial School District
“My dad insists that C.J., Josh, and myself follow the Godly principles inside Manners First G.I.F.T.S. manual.”
– Hannah (5th Grader – now a student at George Washington University)
