NRHEG Star Eagle

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Wednesday, 14 September 2011 15:26

Connecting in a positive way Featured

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ONE FOR ALL, ALL FOR ONE — NRHEG Elementary teachers and paraprofessionals participate in a Project Charlie/In-Service at the Media Center in Ellendale Tuesday, Sept. 6. (Star Eagle photo by Carol Jolly)

NRHEG Elementary holds in-service with original Project Charlie author

By CAROL JOLLY

Staff Writer

Snickers lavishly echoed amongst the fourth-graders as Mrs. Lavery entered the classroom. Dressed in a  Davy Cockett hat, clodhoppers and potato sack dress, Lavery’s body reeled of unshrinkable exuberance. “Good morning, students,” she greeted. 

"Teaching in an over exaggerated way helps bring kids’ defenses down," said Marion London, Independent Education Consultant. "It allows them to laugh, and see things from a different perspective." 

On Tuesday afternoon, September 6, the NRHEG Elementary teachers and paraprofessionals participated in a Project Charlie/Anti-Bullying In-Service at the Media Center in Ellendale. This in-service was conducted by London, an original author of the Project Charlie program. 

The Project Charlie program is geared toward creating positive youth development. NRHEG Elementary has incorporated the Project Charlie program into their 2011-12 curriculums for all students. 

"I think the Project Charlie program will help students better understand behavior that is appropriate," NRHEG Elementary teacher Lanae Thorstad said. “And not, because it will be more consistent throughout the school."

It's the NRHEG Elementary building’s goal to have students interact with peers, and staff, across all settings, demonstrate appropriate language and behaviors, in order to promote a positive learning environment. Implementing Project Charlie, with the anti-bullying education techniques will be a cooperative learning tool in achieving that desired affect. 

In spreading the Project Charlie magic, it will give everyone a voice. Project Charlie will grant students the opportunity to see things from someone else’s shoes through listening to each other, sharing their own experiences, or even choosing to pass, thereby creating a safe haven and a place where they belong.

Not so unlike adults, kids learn individually, and each has a different style. Allowing kids to connect with each other in a positive way builds self-esteem, and confidence, while also teaching them about themselves, and helping them gain a sense of resiliency. 

"Thoughts, feelings, and actions helps kids to process," London said. "Project Charlie will provide a 'sense of community' for families, kids and staff."

"Project Charlie reinforces positive behavior and respect," said Mary Conway, NRHEG fourth-grade teacher. "Everyone is important." 

Mostly, the Project Charlie program reminds us all, "There is no trust more sacred than the one the world holds with children. There is no duty more important than ensuring children’s rights are respected, and that their welfare is protected. That children’s lives are free from fear, and want, and that they grow up in peace." 

Teaching them to champion their own unique individuality, establishes a bridge to acceptance. Acceptance of themselves and others, ultimately, assures a peaceful partnership with the world.

Read 1609 times Last modified on Thursday, 05 May 2016 21:37

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