Carnegie classes teach local educators

By: Amanda Crabtree

Dale Carnegie designed a communication class so inspirational to Jon Morey, a local businessman, he decided to pay for local educators to attend the classes.

“He is doing such a service for the community by doing this,” said Natalie Merryman, pre-school teacher at Morey Public School Academy.

Merryman had nothing but praise for Wendy Groll, the “phenomenal” Carnegie trainer, and assistant Cindy, who worked with local educators and business people from Dow Chemical and at least five different schools, including Morey, Beal City and St. Joseph.

The Dale Carnegie class consisted of 12 weekly meetings where teachers from all levels, a superintendent, school counselors and even one kitchen staff person learned how to use familiar skills in a way to make a difference in children’s lives.

During the classes participants shared stories from their classrooms as well as extremely personal stories, including overcoming dyslexia and attending special education classes as children.

“Not only did it change all of our lives, but we grew so close I would do anything for any of them,” Merryman said of her fellow educators.

The Carnegie class takes skills people already know, such as listening to others and avoiding arguments, and making sure people actually apply them to real life. While most people see these actions as common sense, some do not often practice this proper communication with others.

Merryman said the classes were fun and face paced, and the participants were frequently put out of their comfort zones.

Participants voted to give their peers awards, “They meant so much coming from people you know,” Merryman said. The kitchen staff person won the “gold key,” the highest award given. Anyone in contact with children can make a difference in their lives, not just their teachers, Merryman said.

Dale Carnegie training is represented in all 50 states, as well as 75 other countries. Founded in 1912, the training is based on Carnegie’s belief in the power of self-improvement, according to dalecarnegie.com

Edited by Meredith Mayberry and Kelly Morse