Manners First—G.I.F.T.S. (God’s Instruction For Teaching Students) challenges students through practical teachings and demonstrations to not just be hearers of the Word, but doers as well. Manners First—G.I.F.T.S. is a manual for students to document their personal walk with God, challenge themselves to recognize God in their school life, and to live a life of excellence beyond school in the kingdom of God. Our highest priorities are:
v A vision to expose all students to success with an understanding heart along with building trusting relationships, that compassionately support students, families, and communities.
v To reduce the drop out rate for all students.
v To prepare students for service, college, and the workforce.
v To create a learning environment among students, educators, families, and communities.
v To collaborate with other stakeholders in the educational field, both locally and at the state level.
L. Clayton Washington is the founder and chairman of the Manners First Education Foundation, which focuses on exposing students to success through scholarships, awards, and innovative initiatives.
Clayton earned his Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from the
The Godly principles of Manners First were taught to Clayton by his grandmother, parents, and people in the community who instilled in him that “good manners will take you further than money.”
Clayton began his career in education in 1997. That year, he introduced the principles of Manners First—showing respect for self, for others, and for learning. Throughout his career in the field of education, Clayton has helped many students obtain college scholarships, employment, and employment-related training through his Manners First initiatives and programs. In addition, he has helped many at-risk students obtain their high school diplomas.
Over the past ten years, God has graced Clayton with many awards and recognitions related to his Manners First program. Below are a few of the honors he has received.
· 2003 – Best Practices in Education Award and Most Innovative Grant Writer Award from MBNA.
· 2004 and 2005 – Team Manners First, an after-school boys’ group formed for students at-risk and/or with disabilities, was awarded the Leadership Award by
· 2007 - Received two Respect Awards at
· 2007 - Received the Learning Award for initiating College/Career Learning After School for Seniors (C.L.A.S.S.), an innovative program to assist seniors with job and career placement, college enrollment, and scholarship assistance. The C.L.A.S.S. initiative was instrumental in assisting William Penn’s senior class of 2007 in establishing a school record for the highest number of scholarships and financial aid awarded.
Please contact us if you wish to interview Clayton or request additional information. His book is available at local bookstores and online at www.mannersfirst.org.
Media Contact: L. Clayton Washington
Manners First Education Foundation
Tel: 856-332-5570
Email: chair.wash@mannersfirst.org
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