| The Forming of... A Suit & A Rockstar |
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| After reading, Jonathan Kozol's Amazing Grace, Patrice Pike, top ten hit artist, wrote a moving song about a boy living a very sad existence in the South Bronx. She was performing the song, The Honey Tree Lie, one night at an Austin, Texas venue when Keitha St. Clair, an awarded educator from San Antonio, Texas, walked in and sat down to listen. Keitha had also read Kozol's Amazing Grace. It is one of the books that she recommends to all new teachers. She was instantly moved by Patrice's soulful lyrics about the boy living in dire circumstances. "I knew that she was the musician that I was meant to partner with in order to reach more teachers and more at-risk youth with a life changing message," says Keitha. An at-risk success story herself, St. Clair knew how to navigate through the public school system and the higher education institutions while earning top honors. A creative writer and successful public speaker, she had created a training program that taught teachers how to reach at-risk youth. For such a young teacher, she had tasted great success in the consulting business. But, Keitha knew that today's youth and many of their teachers were heavily influenced by music. She had been hoping to find the right musician to work alongside her. She knew that teachers would enjoy her keynotes and professional development sessions much more if there was an element of entertainment added. She also knew that at-risk youth would be more eager to trust her message and to follow her advice if she was endorsed by a popular musician. Despite hardships, Keitha found her stride in high school, graduating third in her class. She then secured a scholarship and student loans so that she could realize her dream of studying at the University of Texas in Austin. Graduating from the university in 1996, she wanted to share all that she had learned with other at-risk youth. Keitha approached Patrice with her idea regarding the two of them joining forces. Patrice revealed that she was also a self-made at-risk success story. Patrice's young talent and drive allowed her to be accepted into The Booker T. Washington School of Performing Arts in Dallas, Texas. On her own by the age 16, Patrice crafted an essay after graduating from high school that compelled North Texas State University to offer her a scholarship to continue her study of music. She was later signed by Arista records and managed by the legendary Clive Davis. Patrice went on to become a top ten hit artist, to tour with some of the biggest names in music, and to use her fame to influence others through social activism. The two women share a rare inner strength. They have the "know how" to overcome any obstacle placed in their path. The early success in their careers is the proof needed to verify their methods. They are truly a dynamic duo with words of wisdom that far exceed their age. Their appearances usually begin with standing room only prior to the doors closing. It is obvious that the two women do what they love and love what they do. Audience members report that they laugh, they cry, but most importantly, they leave with a renewed passion for reaching out to at-risk youth. Pike and St. Clair are available for keynote addresses at events/symposiums/conferences. They also customize professional development sessions for individual school districts, campuses, and community organizations. They are available to speak with groups of at-risk youth, as well. It's not uncommon to observe an auditorium full of at-risk youth affording the two women laser-like focus. St. Clair beams when she explains, "we've been given an opportunity to help others. That is what life is really all about." |
Teachers Love Them! Students Love Them! Administrators Love Them! Parents Love Them! Book Today: 210.421.6614 |