Hello All,

  Our Character Counts program is in full swing again this year and students are continuing to learn about what it means to be a person of good character. So far we have worked hard on making good choices, and we have talked about being respectful and tolerant of ALL others. As a part of the discussion on respect and tolerance, students also discuss the word bullying. We talk about what it means and how to handle it. The focal point of our discussions this year have been about following the "Golden Rule" and showing someone else kindness even when they are not doing so for you. We have read a few stories together: "The Recess Queen" by: Alexis O'Neill, and "Bully Beans" by Julia Cook (my favorite children's book author) that discuss bullying and appropriate, respectful ways to handle it. I encourge you to continue to talk with your children about bullying and help them develop and use strategies that are assertive and respectful. In January we will get right back into "Bucket Filling" and Random Acts of Kindness (RAK's) to help our kids continue to learn and grow! Happy Holidays. Talk to you again soon!