Glenfield seventh grader Reeves Fils-Aime was recently recognized for being a finalist in the Alpha Phi Alpha Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Oratorical Contest in January. For 22 years, the Alpha Alpha Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has sponsored the annual MLK Oratorical Competition for Essex County young men in 7th and 8th grade. Reeves was one of seven students whose monologues on the topic Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Perspectives of the World Today were selected.
In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, Alpha Phi Alpha thanked the schools of the MLK Oratorical Competition finalists with resources to continue their important work of molding young men. Finalists also had the opportunity to honor a teacher who has made a difference in their lives. Reeves chose Social Studies teacher and House Leader Scott Berman as the recipient of $500 from Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Reeves read his speech dedicated to Berman yesterday in an assembly with his teachers and classmates:
“Mr. Scott Berman has made the greatest impact on me during my time at Glenfield Middle School because of the many emotional and truthful topics about what made our society today. He has informed me of things that I couldn't learn on my own. Not only has he impacted me, he has also impacted other students and teachers. I think he deserves $500 because of his kindness and compassion for this entire school. Mr. Berman’s presence alone emits happiness and joy wherever he goes. He speaks with generosity and has a conversation with all of his students. All of this shows how Mr. Berman is more than a teacher but a friend.”
Principal Erika Pierce said in her newsletter to Glenfield families, “I would like to send a big shout-out to Reeves Fils-Aime of House Berman for being selected as one of the seven finalists. We are so proud of Reeves and his accomplishment!”