This morning I joined parents, staff, students and Miss Empire Rose 2011 herself, Colleen Gagne, at Park Terrace Elementary to talk about bullying and help present the school's leadership awards!
After chatting with Principal Steve Pavone I learned that this school is not just about stopping bullies, it's about building futures. They are developing partnerships with local colleges to help students start on the path to success from an early age. I had sensed something was special about this school when we walked by a boulder with "bullying...just stop it" painted across the front.
My usual talk about how to be a leader was a breeze with this crowd, and after our discussion I helped award nearly 80 students for their excellence in leadership and outstanding character in the month of November. An audience of parents cheered. Each month teachers at Park Terrace have this chance to highlight and reward exceptional behavior in their students. Bullying research has shown that punishing or criminalizing a bully is far less effective than rewarding positive behavior.
What I love about this model of rewards is that not only do the good students get attention, but every student has a chance each month to turn their behavior around. It's not a once a year shot, it's a constant open door and regular opportunity that any student can take up. Life is not about getting it perfect from the start, or even about where you have been along the way...it's about where you are going right now. It's about the steps you choose today and how you handle the opportunities right in front of you. One can always learn from their past, but I don't believe in defining people entirely by their history. Every morning is a new chance and could be the day you start fresh. Even if you've been the bully for years on end, or slacked on your school work, or failed to keep in touch with friends, or waiting to start up that new business idea...your path can change on a dime if YOU make that choice. This is America, the land of opportunity, and Park Terrace is doing an incredible job of making those opportunities clear for their students!
Click to see a great news clip from my visit! Thanks to all the students and staff for a great time, and to all the parents for showing such incredible support for their little ones!!
P.S. Yes, of COURSE I signed the rock.
No comments:
Post a Comment