Where are the Role Models?

What does Henry Ford, Steve Jobs (Founder of Apple Computers), Whoopi Goldberg, Patrick Dempsey, Danny Glover and Leonardo da Vinci all have in common? Amazingly enough, all of these talented, successful people struggled with dyslexia during their childhood. They serve to inspire and remind us that given determination and will, overcoming personal obstacles is possible. Their success and dedication puts them in a unique class for which they can serve as role models for all of us.

As I finally had the opportunity to watch television over the winter break, I was disappointed by the frequency of the negative news reports in the media on today’s public figures. Reflecting on this past year (2009), celebrities such as Tiger Woods, Miley Cyrus, Michael Phelps, Britney Spears, and Michael Jackson were just some of the potential role models surrounded by much controversy and speculation. Although we may never know what personal struggles these prominent people experienced as children, the characteristics portrayed by the media often leave young people, and in particular students, struggling to find a role model to emulate.

News reports that motivate school-aged children and serve to build their confidence are seldom found in today’s media. Public figures and celebrities can have a significant impact on young people and as educators it is important to identify those who qualify as credible role models. However, finding the right role models to actively and consistently provide a positive influence on today’s youth and inspire them is not an easy task. As we start off the New Year, we have high aspirations for public figures and celebrities to fill the existing role model gap.

Fortunately, for dyslexic students there is a list of potential role models, consisting of famous, successful people who have overcome their struggles with dyslexia. Check out the following website to discover who else is on the list.

http://www.dyslexia-test.com/famous.html