February is a difficult month in many schools. With the glow of New Year’s Resolutions wearing off, many character education leaders may find staff enthusiasm and buy-in waning at their schools. The following Promising Practices provide innovative ways of dealing with the doldrums by engaging staff further:
Portage Central Middle School in Portage, Michigan’s “Teachers Visiting Teachers” program provides instructors with the opportunity to visit each others’ classrooms during the school day. They are encouraged to visit grade levels and subject matters other than their own in an effort to gain greater understanding of and perspective on the total school culture, as well as their own role in the school community.
At Northview High School in Florissant, Missouri, staff members experienced an introduction to bullying including the five types and its effects through “Work As a Professional Community” trainings.They learned about adult behaviors that unintentionally perpetuate bullying and learned how to give effective behavior changing praise. They also learned strategies for supporting bystanders, targets and bullies.
At Imagine Charter School in Weston, Florida, the Character Education Task Force organizes at least two “Character Ed Tea Parties” a year to provide character development ideas and strategies to other staff members. It’s a great way for teachers to share what they are doing in their classrooms to promote good character in their students, while having tea and dessert.
