Bright Key Announces New Middle School Resource Coordinator:

Matt Boster

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Posted by: Matt Boster
Date: Feb 03 2017 12:46 PM

DOTHAN: One of the first things you notice about Vincent Owens is his smile. Plus, at 6’4”, he naturally commands attention when he walks in the room. What is a little surprising is his quiet nature. But don’t let his softspoken demeanor fool you.

This Orlando native and oldest of six children is primed and ready to take on Bright Key at the middle school level. Bright Key recently hired Owens as their resource coordinator to oversee the after school programs at both Girard and Honeysuckle middle schools. Owens will be responsible for implementing programs that address the “whole child” concept that is the fundamental principle of Bright Key. The after school program offers tutoring, mentoring programs and STEM (science technology engineering math) lab projects. He will spend time between each school working with on-site coordinators and volunteers.

Since Bright Key programs are driven by stakeholders, made up of parents, teachers and community members, Owens will work closely with them to implement the programs they want for their students. Though academics are a focus after school through tutoring, Owens believes in a consistent balance between academics and social skills.

One of his goals is to make learning fun. He also aims to address real life issues and give students the tools to become successful adults. One of his first initiatives is the “Gloves not Guns” program that features a local veteran who uses boxing and his rich military background to mentor the kids. Every week, former Olympic boxing coach, Kevin Green, comes to each school and addresses important life skills like leadership, teamwork and self-respect. He also engages the kids in brief boxing exercises. “It’s programs like this that I think will make a long term difference in the lives of these students,” says Owens.

“Our programs are designed to challenge not only their minds, but their hearts and bodies as well.” Owens adds he aims to add more programs based on feedback from parents. “We have had tremendous input from parents about what they want for their kids. Addressing things like manners, finances and interview skills, are important to them. Showing them what college has to offer and making sure they know college can become a reality if they work hard. I’m currently developing programs that focus on those things.

Again, it’s all about making it fun with the goal of making a lasting impact.” Bright Key Program Director Melanie Hill says Owens was a standout candidate for the position. “Vincent Owens is a man of character, knowledge and wisdom. He was the obvious choice for the role of Bright Key Resource Coordinator for Girard and Honeysuckle Middle Schools. He has a wonderful charisma and rapport with adults and students alike.”

Bright Key Announces New Middle School Resource Coordinator: Owens holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Liberty University, where he is currently working on his Master of Arts in Special Education. He has been in the non-profit arena for many years and served as a personal consultant for various organizations. He also worked as a mentor and residential officer in Marianna, FL at the Arthur Dozier School for Boys. Most recently he was employed at Northview High School as a special education behavioral aide.

Owens thinks community involvement and volunteerism are very important. In addition to Bright Key, he is currently the lead pastor at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Dothan. He is also a member of the “Sons of Joy” gospel quartet. He and his wife, Karrion, have two sons. ABOUT BRIGHT KEY Bright Key, a concept turning public schools into energized centers for services by adding programs focusing on the whole child, including his/her school, family and community, was approved in 2014 by the Dothan City School Board.

The program is structured to allow the stakeholders to express what programs and opportunities they believe are needed for their child and its school. Bright Key programs are at Highlands Elementary, Selma Street Elementary, Girard Middle and Honeysuckle Middle.

For more information, visit brightkeywiregrass.org or each school’s Facebook page at facebook.com/brightkeygirardmiddle, facebook.com/brightkeyhighlands, facebook.com/brightkeyhoneysuckle and facebook.com/brightkeyselmastreet.

Pictured: Bright Key Resource Coordinator, Vincent Owens.

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