Character Development
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. Adults model appropriate language, actions, and use children's misbehaviour as an opportunity to teach social and conflict-resolution skills, rather than as an opportunity to punish.
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 discipline procedures 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 IMATTstrategy:
- Ignore the person
- Move away from the person bothering you
- Ask the person to stop
- Tell the person to stop
- 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 Evergreen School! Teachers and other staff members will continuously assist students in developing positive character qualities and when needed, conflict or problem solving strategies.
Circle of Courage at Evergreen School
This means that we have a shared responsibility to create an environment where everyone has a strong sense of “Belonging”. At Evergreen School every child is included; they work and play in flexible, collaborative groupings.
At Evergreen School every child has a sense of “Mastery”. They are deeply involved in their work and know why it matters for them. Evergreen students are enthusiastic learners. Learning at Evergreen School is inquiry rich. When problem solving, students are encouraged to explore different solutions. The learning is meaningful and engaging; our students are personally invested in their learning.
Both parents and teachers help students become responsible for the choices that they make. Our students demonstrate increased “Independence” as they are able to do so.
At Evergreen School, we are thoughtful, caring and considerate of others. We build a sense of “Generosity” by unconditionally giving to others.
