"Live so that when your children think of fairness, caring, and integrity, they think of you." - H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
The character word of the month is "Integrity". What a fun word to reveal on April Fool's Day! It is, in my opinion, the toughest character trait to impart on children because it is complex and, at times, abstract. In her 2021 book, Thrivers, Michele Borba says, "Integrity isn't made of DNA (or a GPA) but of learned beliefs, capacities, attitudes, and skills that create a moral compass that children use to help them know what's right, care about what's right, and do what's right." What powerful skills to develop! This is the backbone of our mission to cultivate strength of character so that our students can live lives of integrity.
Yesterday, I had the perfect example of how our students truly understand and practice this trait when I observed one of our younger lower-school students approach Mrs. Briggs after being dropped off. As he walked in, he handed Mrs. Briggs a toy he had found outside and said, "This Happy Meal toy was sitting outside when I got out of my car. I think someone lost it. I really wanted this toy and want to keep it, but I know it would be wrong to do that!" The toy is now sitting in our Lost and Found waiting to be reunited with its original owner, but I couldn't believe my ears when such a young child rationalized making a good decision over his personal desires. While they are not always perfect, it is reassuring to see our students take the messaging of our Cardinal Character to heart.
Speaking of Lost and Found...it is overflowing! If your child is missing something, please reach out to the Front Desk. We will also have our Lost and Found items on display during Parent Conferences. We look forward to returning items to their rightful owners.
Enjoy the long week, and Happy Easter to all who celebrate!
Let's Fly!
Jenn