Teaching Etiquette, Self-Love, and Confidence to the Next Generation with Ms. A

Reclaiming the Lost Art of Etiquette and Connection

In a world dominated by technology and abbreviated communication, the subtle arts of conversation, etiquette, and self-improvement are often overlooked. In this episode of the Out & About with Antionette Podcast, I sat down with Alisa Watson Megginson—affectionately known as Ms. A—to discuss her lifelong mission: helping young people discover and develop their sense of self-worth, confidence, and interpersonal skills through the Positive Charm School of Charm and Self Improvement in Wilmington, Delaware.

The Journey: From Flight Attendant to Community Leader

Ms. A’s remarkable journey began when she left her hometown of Wilmington, Delaware in 1977. Her professional life as a flight attendant brought her into contact with people from all walks of life and fine-tuned her people skills. But it was her early education at the Barbizon School of Modeling in Philadelphia and her initial teaching experiences that led her to identify a critical gap: young women sometimes lacked guidance on self-care, etiquette, and self-esteem.

After observing a need among women reentering society after incarceration during her time in Charleston, West Virginia, Ms. A began teaching her signature six-week course in personal development. She later pivoted to focus on young girls ages 7 to 18, seeking to instill these fundamental values earlier in life. Now, her courses are soon to be housed at One Village Alliance in Wilmington, expanding their reach even further.

Positive Charm School: More Than Just Manners

What makes the Positive Charm School unique is its holistic approach. Ms. A’s curriculum covers nutrition, grooming, skincare, haircare, wardrobe choices, and—at its heart—etiquette. She explains, “During my etiquette class, which is my baby, I believe in…no matter if you’re male or female, if you’re going out for a job interview or a meeting, you need to know the proper things to use when sitting at the table.” But the course goes beyond formality, teaching practical skills like manicures and pedicures, and promoting habits of personal care and self-love.

Classes are divided by age, ensuring that each group receives guidance tailored to their stage in life. Ms. A’s methods are hands-on, interactive, and designed to foster real-world application: “They do a manicure and pedicure. I teach them, I furnish all the materials. Then once they go home the next week…I know that they are actually doing and learning for themselves.”

Leading by Example and Fostering Respect

Ms. A embodies the values she teaches, setting an example for her students at every turn. Whether it’s using a knife and fork properly to eat chicken or guiding students through public speaking exercises, she lives by her mantra: “If you’re going to teach something, you have to do what you’re teaching.” This approach ensures her students don’t just hear about manners and respect—they see it in action.

She’s especially passionate about mutual respect and believes it starts with educators and community leaders. “I don’t demand it, I command it,” she shares, emphasizing that young people mirror the respect they’re given.

Broadening the Circle: Boys, Girls, and Family Connections

Though initially designed for young ladies, Ms. A has welcomed boys into her classes, recognizing that these lessons are vital for everyone. Events like the Denim & Diamond Mother-Son Dance were born from a desire to celebrate all parent-child bonds, not just the traditional father-daughter relationship. “Sons are—their mothers are the son’s first girlfriend…it’s just a relationship that should be there,” she says.

This commitment to inclusivity extends to her teaching style: Ms. A values small class sizes for personal attention but will “make room for you” to ensure that no one is turned away.

The Power of Self-Love and Leaving a Legacy

Ms. A’s WOW (Words of Wisdom) encapsulates her philosophy: “When you get up in the morning…stand in that mirror every morning and say I love and say your name.” She believes the foundation of all etiquette, interaction, and achievement is self-love. Once young people learn to value themselves, they can value others—creating a ripple effect within families and communities.

Get Connected and Get Involved

Positive Charm School of Charm and Self Improvement, under the guidance of Ms. A, is more than a class—it’s a movement to empower Delaware’s youth with the tools they need to flourish. Whether through classes at One Village Alliance, community centers, or even your own living room, Ms. A offers her wisdom and warmth wherever needed.

Learn more on the Positive Charm School Facebook page or reach out via email at positivecharmschoolofcsi@yahoo.com. If you’re looking for a way to support Delaware youth, share this episode, connect with Ms. A, and help spread positivity in your own community.

Out & About with Antionette Podcast is dedicated to sharing stories that inspire, uplift, and empower. Subscribe and stay tuned for more conversations with changemakers like Ms. A!