Manners Mentors Program
Several weeks before the start of the school year, retired Trautwein faculty and staff were invited to a tea where they were given an overview of our character education efforts. Plans for the Manners Mentor program were outlined so they could share in the vision for our school’s character development. Over 20 retirees enthusiastically agreed to be Manners Mentors for the upcoming school year. Each day for the first month of school they took turns coming to the cafeteria to serve as manners mentors for our students as the students put into practice the etiquette and manners that were being taught in the classrooms and during class meetings. The expectations were that students would place a napkin in their lap, chew with their mouth closed, engage in polite table conversation, and take turns being the host/hostess for their table. The mentors encouraged students in their efforts while developing caring relationships. Several continue to visit periodically with our students during lunch time to check on their progress. Many return just because they want to continue their relationship with the children.