A LASTING IMPRESSION

My name is Jonathan Rodriguez. I have worked with grades k-12 for over 20 years. During this time, I have had the opportunity to get to know many students, each with their unique STORY. 

All of us have been impacted in many ways, positive (bright impressions) and negative (dark impressions). In my presentation, I will cover three points.

Impressions / My Shirt. Our actions and words create imprints that leave lasting marks on our lives. In the presentation, I discuss how we leave impressions on others and ourselves (self-talk). I also emphasize the importance of recognizing our effects on our peers and those around us. 

It's my story. We can't change the past, but we can own it. I teach how a single impression does not have to define who you are. I show how every impression is an opportunity to learn, grow and overcome adversity. What we focus on will determine how our story unfolds. 

You hold the pen. I show how we can surround ourselves with those people who will leave bright impressions on our lives. I explain that if we use positive self-talk, we begin to change how we perceive ourselves. I conclude by asking the students to think about what impressions they will leave on others.

Thank you for considering "My Shirt is My Story" for your next school assembly.  

~Jonathan Rodriguez~