R-E-S-P-E-C-T

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I keep finding myself singing Aretha Franklin's "Respect" song in my head! That's because respect is our character education trait for the month of September. Also, I have been planning lessons on respect and friendship skills, which is my focus for classroom lessons in the coming month. I find it helpful to review with students what it looks like and sounds like to respect one another at school.

For instance:

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Don't forget to check out the Guidance Calendar link here to see when I will be visiting your child's classroom in September! Ask your child what they learned about "respect" at school! And, don't be surprised if they (or you) are singing along with Aretha in your head after your discussion with them :)

Have a wonderful long weekend and check back next week for a new blog post.

Highland Park Elementary Goes for the Gold!

I am sure you have heard by now that Highland Park's theme for this year is "Go for the Gold," inspired by the 2012 summer Olympics. I don't know about you but I absolutely love when the Olympics come around every 4 years! This summer's Olympics didn't disappoint. As a former gymnast, I especially loved watching Team USA, or the "Fierce Five" work together to take Gold in the team finals. And who can forget Gabby Douglas, the Flying Squirrel, achieve her dream of the individual All Around Gold.

There are so many amazing and inspiring stories from the Olympics. We see different aspects of character, strength, and personality through the games. But, I always find myself gravitating toward amazing stories of athletes overcoming odds to make their dreams come true. Or, achieving greatness in the face of adversity. This year's Olympics have many stories like this, but there is one that sticks out most to me. That is the story of Oscar Pistorius, South African double amputee Olympic track runner.



Oscar's dream was to compete in the Olympics alongside fellow able-bodied athletes. He achieved his dream in this Summer's Olympics.

I love this story because this is the reason why I became a counselor. I believe the true test of faith and character is defined in the face of adversity. What does one do when faced with a difficult situation? Give up? Or, push forward and find a way to attain one's goals, even in spite of the difficulties one faces? I love working as a counselor because it allows me the privilege to work alongside those who struggle for various reasons, and the exciting honor of watching them overcome adversity to achieve their goals.

This is why I don't only love the individual story of Oscar Pistorius, but the greater story of those around him who welcomed him to be part of their team even with his disability....



...and the character of his opponents who saw his struggle and fight, and honored that with their actions.




(First place Kirani James of Grenada swapped name tags with last place Oscar Pistorius after the Men's 400M semi-final).

This is how I see my role as the counselor at Highland Park Elementary. To be an encouragement to all students, first and foremost, but also to encourage those who are facing various aspects of adversity, encourage them not to give up, and celebrate when they succeed.

I also hope to inspire this in all students that I work with--that they, too, would encourage their classmates and friends when they are struggling. In fact, I see the culture of Highland Park Elementary as one where all staff and students are first creating their own goals and working hard to achieve them, but also encouraging one another, especially through the struggles, and celebrating everyone's successes. This is why I absolutely love being part of this community!

I am so excited for this year and the goals that I know many students will create and achieve! I am thrilled to be part of this journey with the amazing staff, students, and families here at HPE. I can't wait to see all that happens as we "Go for the Gold" together this year!