The Frank De Lima Student Enrichment Program
Overview
The Frank De Lima Student Enrichment Program is a 501(c)(3)
non-profit organization that began in 1985 as a personal
commitment from Frank to make a positive difference in
the life of every boy and girl in Hawaii. As a successful
entertainer with the gift of comedic communication, Frank
believed that he could reach the youth. His early presentations
involved speaking engagements to elementary school-aged
children that shared the importance of education, family,
and humor.
Since then, those visitations have increased to annual
presentations of approximately 180 elementary and middle/intermediate
schools throughout Hawaii. It takes Frank two years to
complete the visitation cycle.
Target Audiences
Kindergarten through 3rd Grade Video
Clips
The elementary school visitation program comes from the
belief that consistency and repetition are learning variables
that can help students absorb a simple yet meaningful
message: The significance of reading, studying, laughing,
and family (3 Bs = Be Safe, Be Responsible, and Be Respectful).
These areas are presented to students in a fun and entertaining
manner.
4th through 8th Grade Video Clips
Frank also visits Hawaii's 4th through 8th graders. He
discusses the trials of "growing up" and the emotional
"diseases" - also known in the Hawaiian Pidgin language
as "tidah-itis" and "blalah-itis" - that are commonly
associated with this age group.
The 3 Bs are also included with focus on being respectful
(Respect for self and Respect for others).
The transition between elementary and middle/intermediate
schools is a major emotional and physical leap from childhood
to adolescence for all students. It is a sensitive time
that can be filled with anxiety and confusion.
As such, Frank - in cooperation with Adult Friends for
Youth and the Department of Education - coordinates the
Student Transition Convention. It was established to allow
this age group the opportunity to enjoy a common experience
with peers from other schools and realize that their expectations
and emotions are normal. This annual, interactive convention
hosts more than 14,000 students statewide. The convention
provides a unique orientation/adjustment process within
the American education system.
7th through 8th Grade Video Clips
As a follow-up to the convention, Frank visits Hawaii's
middle/intermediate schools and shares the following ten
guidelines to lead happier and healthier lives:
- Choose your friends wisely
- Find a responsible adult friend to confide in
- Ask for help when you need it
- Respect your uniqueness and the uniqueness of others
- Do your personal best
- Keep healthy in mind, body, and spirit
- Attend school and make it a positive experience
- Choose peaceful solutions
- Dream big and follow your dreams
- Laugh at least twice a day
Comments
The Program has received many compliments and positive
comments through the years from the general public, including
students, teachers, principals, and community leaders.
Here's what they had to say - in their own words:
"Even when you were giving us a lecture about respect
you managed to put in some spark and make it sound funny,
interesting, and educational. You have a certain charisma
I'd love to have."
Siherriel
Student, Lehua Elementary School
"Yes, you truly modeled that you did your homework and
that made your lesson even stronger. Thank you very much
for giving yourself, 'Everyday from August to May!'"
Susan Young and Pamela Honbo
Principal and Vice-Principal, respectively, He`eia School
"Our deepest appreciation for your timely messages about
studying, laughter, family, reading, racial tolerance,
human respect, and positive attitudes. Our school program
attempts to promote the very same ideas and practices."
Edna Hussey
Head of School, Epiphany School
"While presented in a humorous manner, your message was
both serious and relevant: study hard, do your best, choose
your friends wisely, prepare well for the future. We were
honored to have you here, and I write to let you know
of our appreciation for your time and interest as well
as your talent."
Robert Springer
Headmaster, ASSETS School
"Thank you for your unselfish and continued support in
developing the total child. Through laughter, you taught
us that life is worthwhile and that we are worthwhile."
Gracie Matsuo
Former Principal, Lehua Elementary School
"Thank you for teaching us about school and family. Respect
your family by helping your parents with chores at home,
and listen to your parents."
Mary Joy Ramelb
Student, Lehua Elementary School
"Your performance is doubly effective: you make us laugh
and you also plant the seeds of valuable ideas and beliefs."
Karen Moriyama
Principal, Kanoelani Elementary School
"As a teacher, your messages every year are timely & reinforce
important qualities of character that we hardly have time
anymore to focus on. You demonstrate to us all - adults
& youth - what true power is & what a difference each
one of us can make in the lives & spirits of those around
us."
Melissa Samimi
Teacher & Parent, Central Intermediate School
Mahalo to the Hawaii State Department of Education
and Chevron
The Frank De Lima Student Enrichment Program is successful
because of the generosity of our major sponsors, Hawaii
State Department of Education and Chevron. Mahalo for
your continued support!
