“On the Road” is a long-running CBS TV program that features human interest stories
In a recent visit to the Alhambra Traditional School in Phoenix, I was met not just with warmth, but with genuine shock. Little did I know the extent of our connection, all thanks to a dedicated teacher named Derek Brown. For over a decade, he’s been sharing one of my stories with his fifth-grade students every single day.
To Derek, it’s not just about Math, English, or any subject on the curriculum. It’s about instilling something more fundamental – character. “Nothing matters if the kids aren’t grounded and good,” he wisely points out. He believes that the stories we encounter on “On The Road” every week teach character in a way no textbook ever could.
“On the Road” is a long-running CBS television program that features human interest stories. It was originally introduced by journalist Charles Kuralt in the 1960s. The show is known for its heartwarming and often inspirational stories about everyday people and their unique experiences, struggles, and achievements. These stories are typically set in different parts of the United States, showcasing the diversity of American life.
The program’s focus is on the human element, highlighting the kindness, resilience, and creativity found in communities across the country. Over the years, various hosts and correspondents have continued the tradition of sharing these touching narratives.
The aim of “On the Road” is to connect viewers with the experiences of others, providing a window into the lives of people they might not otherwise encounter. It celebrates the extraordinary within the ordinary and has become a beloved staple of American television.
A student from Derek’s class shared, “It made me nicer to my little brother.” This influence extends far beyond Phoenix. CBS News has uncovered an inspiring trend: teachers across the nation are incorporating “On the Road” into their classrooms. We estimate there are thousands of educators embracing this practice.
In fact, CBS News has initiated a Facebook group titled “Kindness 101 for Teachers,” aimed at uniting these educators. Here, they can exchange lesson plans and strategies, creating a community that now spans over 30,000 members. Yet, there’s always room for more. If you know a teacher who might find this inspiring, please, do share this opportunity with them.
As Derek emphasizes, kids need to see these stories. They need to connect with them on a personal level. Because, in those moments, the potential for transformation is boundless. It’s not just about witnessing goodness; it’s about embodying it.
Derek’s ultimate aspiration? To witness his students not just internalize these stories, but to see them act out the goodness they’ve learned. Perhaps, one day, one of his own students might become the subject of a story, a testament to the profound impact of character education.
For both Derek and me, this would be the ultimate fulfillment of our shared mission.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/WWOdE8iDmp8?si=m0uASQtKPGr-zveA
- https://www.cbsnews.com/news/steve-hartman-on-the-road-kindness-101-teacher-facebook-group/
- https://www.cbs.com/shows/video/_F_8z666lWI8X2Uo2lczS0abdDctJ1GO/
- https://chat.openai.com/
- https://readloud.net/
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