Character Education

At Gateway Elementary School, we value the development of our students’ character in addition to their academic growth. It is our desire to see all students at Gateway grow into respectful, responsible citizens who are able to contribute in positive ways to their community. Because of this goal, we place a high priority on teaching children specifically what it means to be a person of good character. The components of the character education program at Gateway include the following:

· Lessons are done in each classroom throughout the school year by the school counselor to provide age-appropriate instruction on various aspects of good character. Topics include bully-proofing, conflict resolution, friendship skills, as well as lessons on the value word of the month.

· A “thought for the day” is provided each day during morning announcements to promote the value word of the month.

· The large bulletin board by the library displays a message for all students relating to positive attitudes and behaviors.

· Students are recognized for good character and hard work through the Principal’s Recognition Ceremony each month as well as the Proud Panther Awards.

· Student Council and K-Kids organize activities such as the Thanksgiving Food Drive, Pennies for Peace, and other fundraisers for humanitarian organizations, thereby promoting the qualities of compassion and generosity.

“Watch your thoughts, for they become words.

Watch your words, for they become actions.

Watch your actions, for they become habits.

Watch your habits, for they become character.

Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.”

Value Words of the Month

2008-2009

September–Respect

Be considerate of the feelings of others· Appreciate differences·Take good care of school property·Haverespect for other’s property

October–Conflict Resolution

Solve problems peacefully by using one of the conflict resolution strategies: Walk away· Share and take turns· Tell them to stop· Talk it out· Apologize· Make a deal· Go to another game, friend, or group· Ignore it

November–Responsibility

Do the things you are supposed to do· Think before you act about how your actions will effect others· Always do your best· Accept the consequences of your choices

December–Kindness and Compassion

Follow the Golden Rule· Be helpful to others·Always include and invite others to play with you· Share and take turns· Be fair

January–Honesty and Integrity

Always tell the truth without adding anything or leaving anything out· Don’t take things that don’t belong to you· Be fair· Take responsibility for your choices· Do your own work· Do the right thing even if no one is watching

February–Work Ethic/ Perseverance

Always do your best· Never give up· Complete all your work· Have good attendance and be on time· Take pride in your work· Get extra help when needed

March–Good Manners

Use polite words· Wait one’s turn · Be patient· Be helpful

April–Teamwork

Solve problems quickly and peacefully ·Respect other’s ideas and opinions · Include all team members · Value and utilize each person’s strengths

May–Citizenship

Be involved in school and community projects to help others · Take pride in your school and community · Respect and care for the environment · Keep your school and community clean and safe