As part of our efforts to support social emotional learning and help every adult and child discover their best selves, we are introducing different virtues throughout the year.
Virtues are character traits a person possesses that when practiced reveal the best version of themself. The Virtues Project has developed a research-based list of virtues that are considered to be universally recognized across all cultures as a demonstration of good character. We believe that every individual innately possesses the potential to demonstrate each virtue; however, sometimes we need to be taught what a virtue looks like and require support in awakening a virtue within ourselves.
In September and October, we had a schoolwide focus on kindness, self-discipline, and perseverance. During morning meetings, students and teachers defined each virtue and then spent some time at the end of each day giving shout outs to classmates that demonstrated each of the virtues throughout the day.
In November, we will be focused on the virtues of perseverance and compassion.
Students going above and beyond to demonstrate these virtues will be recognized as a Stellar Stallion and receive a positive office referral Virtues Victory certificate. When we reach 50 stellar stallions, the school will celebrate with a schoolwide dance party.
Please remind your students to be their best selves by practicing these virtues every day.
Our school wide Virtues this month:
October 13th – November 10th: Perseverance - Staying committed and not giving up, not letting anything stop or distract you
You can promote perseverance by:
- Encouraging and modeling positive self-talk
- I’m no good at this --> I’m not good at this yet!
- This is too hard --> This is hard, but if I keep trying, I will get better at it.
- Praising effort, not intelligence or being “smart”- be specific in complimenting the process they used to tackle the task.
- Assisting your child in managing their emotions as they attempt difficult tasks.
- Celebrating mistakes as a chance to persevere and flex our “struggle muscles”
- Breaking difficult tasks into smaller, manageable steps
November 13th - November 21st: Consideration- Being thoughtful about other people and their feelings, thinking about how your actions affect others and caring about others feel
Activities to promote consideration to do with your child:
- Make a list of people you care the most about and thoughtful things and actions you can do to bring them happiness
- Spend time being considerate of everyone who crosses your path- talk about what it feels like and what effect it seemed to have on each person
- Think of someone who needs help or kindness and do something thoughtful
