"I should never have to convince anyone that the safety of children is more important than the comfort of adults."

Before I became an advocate for change, I was a proud New Berlin Pretzel! That high school mascot was a unique part of my identity, and I cherished the spirit and camaraderie it symbolized. One of our favorite cheers was: "If you think you can beat us, then take a big bite." 

However, my high school experience took a disturbing turn. In 1985, as a freshman at New Berlin High School, I yearned for the typical teenage milestones – being a cheerleader, having a date for the prom, and wearing a letter jacket. Little did I know that a dark reality would overshadow my aspirations. 

At the tender age of 14, I was groomed into a love relationship by a popular teacher. Blinded by trust and admiration for authority, I became entangled in a web of manipulation and abuse. What I thought was love and acceptance turned out to be a predator's calculated exploitation of my innocence and vulnerability. For years, I was deceived into believing that the abusive relationship I was in was normal and loving. It took a shift in perspective at 44 to realize the truth that I had been preyed upon and abused. Since then, I have been on a mission to speak my truth, advocate for change, and seek justice for myself and others who have suffered similar fates.

Grooming is a despicable act that preys on a child's natural need for love and distorts their innocence for the abuser's gain. It's a playbook that predators use to manipulate their victims into consenting to their own violation, only to be blamed for it later. 

In my quest for change, I developed "Grooming 101 - A Predator's Playbook," a presentation that illuminates the subtle signs of grooming and educates on recognizing potential red flags. This presentation has reached numerous educators, counselors, social workers, medical personnel, and law enforcement and has empowered thousands of students.

"Grooming 101 - A Predator's Playbook" is not just my story; it's the story of millions of children who trusted authority figures have abused. It exposes how grooming happens and emphasizes the urgency of addressing this issue to protect our children from sexual abuse by those they trust the most.

I am committed to bringing this presentation to your organization. I aim to educate and empower both adults and children. My passion lies in educating as many people as possible to prevent the suffering of countless others.

Peace,

Michelle Stolleis Denault