Principal's Message March 1, 2010

Every month, Mr. Hill and I attend a meeting for administrators that focuses on the various initiatives that are taking place across the province and in our classrooms. Finding Common Ground is a document that describes how character education is embedded in teaching in the home and the schools. It describes, "A quality education is not only geared towards intellect, but also towards attitudes, behaviors, dispositions and sensibilities. It emphasizes all aspects of the self and domains of learning - the cognitive, affective, attitudinal and behavioral. It is about the education of the whole person. Character development, which encompasses all these domains, is a fundamental goal of education in Ontario. Many studies highlight the importance parents place on character development while building strong foundational skills in literacy, numeracy and critical thinking. According to this study, one of the highest priority for parents is for schools to help students develop as responsible citizens and to learn how to make ethical decisions." Our character education program continues to foster these attributes and together we work to accomplish these goals. Upcoming events including spirit days, donate a toonie to 'Live Free', Arts day workshops, and so on are all geared at broadening our students' perspectives. Thanks for your support in all these endeavors. I have included a message that I received from a friend and it might be one that you want to share with a member of your family to give them a boost. "May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us." Katrina Plazek