Character Counts At Warren Schools

More than 10 curriculum writing opportunities were offered prior to the 2014-2015 school year in Warren Township Schools.

Representing each of the five schools in the PreK-8 district, all seven Guidance Counselors met to develop a new comprehensive Character Education curriculum. On hand to assist were Character Education Committee Supervisors William Kimmick and Stacey Hann-Modugno, as well as Candida Hengemuhle, Director of Special Services.

The counselors first evaluated what was in place and decided how the established program could be strengthened and improved. One of the overarching goals was to expose students to a common language across the district, while also enabling staff to use consistent methods when helping students understand what is expected of them. The educators outlined connected topics, each building upon the next, from one grade level to another. They included the following essential competencies for 21st century learning: communication, social skills, decision making, and problem solving. It was important to the counselors to incorporate programs that were research based; they selected two well-established, comprehensive models, Elias’ Social Decision Making/Social Problem Solving and Olweus’ Bullying Prevention Program.

At the elementary level, Kelly Blessing-Maire, Diane Langworthy, Trish Morris, and Kelly Stankiewicz have begun to implement informative guidance lessons in all K-5 classrooms. After each, classroom teachers provide additional opportunities for students to practice, and reinforce beneficial skills through prompts and cues throughout the school day. On a monthly basis, some of the topics covered include the following: bullying, bystanders, listening, public speaking, problem solving, decision making, internet safety, communication, good deeds, and reaching one’s potential.

“Starting off the year at the elementary schools, we focused on creating a climate that does not tolerate bullying by encouraging students to stand up to bullying,” said Stankiewicz. “This component of our Character Education program has been beneficial to our overall school environment. Students at Mt. Horeb School have been taking a proactive role in preventing bullying at school.” In addition, the Week of Respect and the Week of Making Good Choices both took place last month. “These celebration weeks offered students many opportunities to participate in school-wide activities that reinforced fundamental anti-bullying concepts and promoted a positive school climate,” said Blessing-Maire. “My ALT students have shared positive feedback about these interactive learning experiences.”

At the middle school level, Midge Johnson, Lauren Regal, and Helen Scully implement lessons during Warren Middle School’s unique guide period. In addition to the topics mentioned, their goal is to foster awareness of individuality, enhance motivation, increase respect, promote core ethical and performance values, and expand students’ support systems. The 2014-2015 theme, “Be Kind”, is interwoven throughout.

“I am so proud of what has resulted from the collaborative efforts in the area of Character Education. It was paramount to have a cohesive research based approach in the curriculum, which I am confident will address not only the bullying law, but teach our students the importance of responsible citizenship,” said Hengemuhle. “We are excited to see the children use their tools to navigate social and academic situations, thus empowering respectful and healthy choices.” Warren Township Schools… Shining Brighter Every Day!

Pictured: (back) Kelly Stankiewicz, Candie Hengemuhle, Lauren Regal, Kelly Blessing-Maire, and Trish Morris (front) Midge Johnson and Diane Langworthy