Chester Community Charter School Hosts Fourth Youth Summit

Carvin Haggins, Grammy-nominated producer and songwriter, 

and newly hired music production instructor at CCCS, 

spoke to more than 800 students, on both east and west campuses, 

to empower and educate them about the power of music.

Chester, PA, October 10, 2014 – Grammy-nominated producer and songwriter Carvin Haggins recently moderated  “Behavior Behind the Music,” a Youth Summit event hosted by Chester Community Charter School (CCCS), the largest K-8 charter school in Pennsylvania, wherein panelists shared, with more than 800 middle school students, the importance of understanding messaging in music, and adopting positive attitudes and behaviors. The school’s fourth installment was held at CCCS’s east and west campuses, in Chester, PA.

The event was the culmination of a school-wide contest in which students submitted original song compositions, essays and poster drawings around the event’s theme. CCCS East Campus eighth-grader, Emiyah Watkins, was awarded the grand prize for her essay discussing how music with provocative subject matter affects how she and her peers interact with one another.

Music entrepreneur Walter Reeder, Jr., CEO and founder of Big Bloc Entertainment, and recording artist BriaMaria shared their experiences as industry professionals and their conscious choice to create and support positive artists and lyrics.

BriaMarie remarked, “When I first began recording, a songwriter wanted me to sing very explicit lyrics that made me uncomfortable. But, I stood up for myself and refused. It didn’t represent me, nor did I want my parents or others to hear negative words or phrases in my songs,” she continued. “Since that day, I’ve made it my mission to create music that makes you feel good about yourself, your friends and community.” Sharon Jackson-Haynes, behavioral specialist, also joined Reeder and BriaMarie, on the panel.

The event, which was held on CCCS’s East and West Campuses, continued with a Q&A session among CCCS middle-schoolers and panelists, and musical performances by the CCCS Choir and singer/songwriter Carol Riddick.

Chester Community Charter CEO Dr. David Clark, said, “Each time we hold this program, the students bring creativity and originality to their essays and drawings. They welcome our guest speakers with respect, and take away life lessons they will carry beyond their experiences, here, at Chester Community Charter School.”