Character education is intentionally taught in every class. Our school climate is based on the development of positive character values. Development of moral integrity in every student is the expected outcome. The focus at Captain John Palliser school is rooted in the Alberta Education Act:

• Do your part to create a safe, caring, welcoming, and respectful community for all

Character Education requires strong community; it requires the support of families, educators and the students themselves. Developing a moral compass is a learned behaviour over time. It requires incidental and direct teaching, pro-social role models, positive problem solving processes, compassion and empathy. Problem solving means making choices and accepting the consequences when things don’t turn out the way you want them to. When children solve problems and learn from their mistakes they build resiliency.

Positive social behaviours are taught and reinforced consistently in the home, school and community. The transfer of positive social and conflict-resolution skills being taught at school will be enhanced if students are encouraged to apply them in a variety of extracurricular and community situations.

The ability to express thoughts and feelings constructively is a necessary skill in building relationships and managing conflict. Self-esteem is built as children develop competency, take responsibility for their language and actions, and learn to resolve problems in a positive way. Developing positive relations with a variety of people fosters a respect for diversity and helps children look at differing perspectives. Children are encouraged to show respect for others and learn how to work together to become responsible citizens. These beliefs drive our school and cause us to learn a better way to handle conflicts and make responsible choices.

There are many ways of showing confidence and assertiveness. If someone is bothering you, try using our IMATT strategy:

1.    Ignore the person

2.    Move away from the person bothering you

3.    Ask the person to stop

4.    Tell the person to stop

5.    Tell an adult

When possible we encourage the children to try the first four steps before coming to an adult. It builds positive social skills. We know that there are times when adult help is needed immediately. We want you to know that any student can depend on any adult at Captain John Palliser School! Teachers and other staff members will continuously assist students in developing positive character qualities and, when needed, conflict or problem solving strategies