Manuel Scott, Freedom Writer helps teachers engage unmotivated youth Jan. 19.

Freedom Writer Manny Scott, portrayed in a MTV hit movie, inspires and motivates educators through a workshop scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 19 from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Harris County Department of Education, 6300 Irvington, Houston, Texas.

The former dropout whose character was portrayed in the 2007 movie starring Hillary Swank and Patrick Dempsey shares five proven methods to engage, equip and empower unmotivated youth to take charge or their own success. Those same tools were used to reach him in his troubled youth.

As a writer and national speaker, Scott is a sought-after, dynamic presenter who has traveled with his famed Freedom Writer teacher Erin Gruwell to inspire and equip educators to make a difference. He is also a doctoral student who studies the ways culture affects change.

To register for the workshop, go to http://www.hcde-texas.org/register and search by date (Jan. 19). Media wishing to attend the event, please email cvaughn@hcde-texas.org or call 713-696-0756.

About Harris County Department of Education (HCDE): Serving students, teachers, schools and communities throughout Harris County, HCDE is a local governmental organization providing value for school districts while supporting educational opportunity. Partnering with Harris County school districts, HCDE maximizes local resources and respond to the needs of locally elected school boards and education leaders. HCDE services include school-based therapy for students, afterschool programs, Head Start, educator training, adult education and programs to promote safe schools. To learn more about how your county department of education can help you: www.hcde-texas.org .