Community Learning Center Broward
Eddie Mars
Powell
BIOGRAPHY
Educator, Parent, Motivational Speaker, and Author.
Catch Phrase
Eddie uses the catch phrase “It’s not what you see, it’s what you want it to be in your mind and in your heart.”
He believes that every child has built inside of them the self -will and determination to be successful and to change their future.
His Personal Story
Eddie's passion to educate lead him to become a substitute teacher with the Broward School Board. He had firsthand experience in what the children were lacking in public schools and was able to relate to them because of his personal educational struggles.
This was also the key he needed to earn his Associates Degree from Florida State College in Jacksonville.
Eddie Mars Powell has been a dedicated member of the Broward County schools since 2008, positively impacting the lives of thousands of students throughout his service. His commitment is evident through initiatives like the Books and Backpacks giveaways, as well as his active involvement in afterschool programs and summer camps. Additionally, he established his own Saturday school program and created the First Traveling American Black History Exhibit, showcasing his passion for education and community engagement. Eddie's contributions truly make a difference in the lives of many.
Experience
He was a school volunteer early on and later was hired by the Broward County School Board in 2008. In 2011, he joined the Community Learning Center Tutoring Company and was named the CLC Program Director of Broward. Eddie ran the Community Learning Center after-school tutoring program for several years. The Community Learning Center's state office in Clearwater worked with Eddie to establish an after-school program in Broward County which provided leadership and character education as well as art and physical fitness.
Eddie eventually branched out on his own to develop his You Can Be Life Skills Program that includes but not limited to tutoring. The You Can Be Life Skills Program is under the umbrella of Eddie's CLC Broward organization. He also initiated Saturday School at Lauderdale Lakes Library which offered Life skills, Social & Emotional Learning Skills , Tutoring and Public Speaking to the children. The YCBLS program has been invited to several churches, schools, and communities for many years.
Recognition
He initiated a new incentive program while working at Maplewood Elementary which challenged the students to become better readers. In 2012 , Eddie and Maplewood Elementary were proudly recognized by the School Board and Member, Robin Bartleman for the introduction, maintenance, commitment and dedication to the success of 354 students meeting their reading goals. This program motivated hundreds of students to turn off the TV and pick up a book! Eddie brought together community business sponsors who provided the funding needed for the food, certificates, $2 bills and promotion of the program.
Program's Goal
As the founder of You Can Be Life Skills / CLC Broward, his goal is to create an influence beyond the students academics.
Our New "Self talk Affirmations"
This strategy will engage the personal aspects of the student in a positive and encouraging way. Our New "Self talk Affirmations", I CAN READ TODAY.
Community Involvement
Broward County Public Schools Equity Conference June 2019
New Mount Olive Baptist Church Zoom Kidz Corner Worship 2020
Mount Bethel Baptist Church Children Ministry
City of Lauderdale Lakes Library - Books and Backpack Giveaway
Tyrone Bryant and Oakland Park Libraries
Elijah Bell Funeral Home - Books and Backpack Giveaway
Summer Camps
City of Lauderdale Lakes After School Youth Mentoring 2019
City of Fort Lauderdale Beach Camp
City of Pompano Beach Mitchell Moore Park and Highlands Park
City of Lauderhill JEM Program Broward Estates Century 21 Program
Black American Build America Exhibit Celebration
Watkins Elementary School 2016
Martin Luther King Montessori Academy
Piney Groove Baptist Church Boys Academy
Lloyd Estates Elementary School
Village Elementary School
