Program sets eighth-graders on the path to good decisions

For local businesswoman Stephaine Buffaloe, volunteering for the CHOICES program isn't about performing a civic duty; it's a calling.

Since the Shoals Chamber of Commerce began its program 11 years ago, thousands of eighth-graders throughout Colbert and Lauderdale counties have been the beneficiaries of the program that sets students on a path to making good life and career choices.

CHOICES is a Seattle-based national program that began after a father wrote a series of letters to his wayward 14-year-old son. His letters impacted the child so greatly that the boy's teacher asked the dad to speak to her class of eighth-graders. Other schools began seeking him as a speaker and ultimately a plan with his information was developed to present in greater scope. That was 25 years ago.

"I'm a CHOICES junkie," Buffaloe said with a laugh.

"When you invest in a child, they know you care and it makes a difference. I've seen this program make a huge difference in the lives of kids in the seven years I've been a presenter. It never fails, I always have at least one child come up to me and say, 'I was thinking of dropping out of school but I see things a little differently now.' That's when you know it's all worthwhile."

The program is scheduled by school request beginning in March. Each eighth-grade class has a two-hour presentation during two days.

Stephanie Newland, the Chamber's Education Workforce Development Coordinator, said the CHOICES program will reach 1,800-2,000 eighth-graders this year.

"The program teaches the students that even in eighth grade their decisions now affect their lives down the road," she said. "Each presenter is trained to deliver the information and more trainers are needed. We have about 15 to 20 presenters but it's usually far fewer who can actually work out the dates to speak to the classes, so we're always in need of more."

The interactive program includes overhead slides, with the presenter stopping to do activities throughout the hour.

Buffaloe has learned that the students often will listen to someone they don't know from the business community when they won't heed the advice of their own family members.

"The main point of this whole lesson is self-discipline," she said, adding that her personal testimony is one of determination.

"I was told by my high school guidance counselor that I wouldn't, or couldn't, be much of a success and there was no point trying because of my (family) background," she said.

"I was determined to prove her wrong and I did. I share my story with these kids and I think many of them identify with me at that point in my life."

Today, Buffaloe is a successful business owner, juggling work and family. But her CHOICES volunteer job ranks high on her priority list.

"If I can help change the path of one kid, I've done my job," she said.

Lisa Singleton-Rickman can be reached at 740-5735 or at lisa.singleton-rickman@TimesDaily.com.