Friday, February 6, 2015

Positive Outlook on Today's Students

I'd like to think that my husband and I are raising our children right. They are good people. They know about work ethic, respect, and high expectations. They also, like all of today's youth, have never lived a life without technology. They have become accustomed to instant feedback, answers, and entertainment right at their figure tips. I have worried about my kids, both biological and students, when it comes to this sense of entitlement that seems present; however, during #thegreatkindnesschallenge, I have seen this a lot differently.

While our kids are entertained and used to us as parents socializing them, running them to countless activities, hovering over them, and keeping them as safe as we possibly can, they are learning about love, kindness, and connection.

The students and staff at MMS have been given a challenge this week. Builders Club and Manchester Voices have teamed up to encourage them to be kind to others. Students have embraced this challenge! In addition to all their kind deeds this week, they are working on service projects with their advisory teachers, and they spent last week participating in a CRC drive sponsored by PTSA. Our students are connected, kind, and want to help others. We have several student groups who do for others. Student Council sponsors our "Successory Program," which thanks staff members, and student incentive programs, which recognizes students. FUTP60 promotes student health. Builders Club does several charitable projects, including Kids Against Hunger. Manchester Voices sponsors our Diversity Day on MLK Day and our Variety Show in addition to countless other activities. This is just to name a few of our groups in our school community. I am seeing our students' greatness through caring for others, and this is a trait that will be valuable for the rest of their lives.

Now that's positive news for us all! We need caring and kind people leading us in the future.