Succinct and to the point, Bobert.


We spend so much time and effort teaching children things that don't matter in school, so much they'll never use again in 'real' life, but no thought is given to teaching them kindness, empathy, understanding and compassion. They are the most important lessons in life, in my opinion...

In the school district, here, where my grandson attends first grade, they have an assembly every morning, for the whole school, in which they start the day off on a positive note with much of the above, i.e. kindness, empathy, understanding, compassion, being imparted in terms the children, ages 5-12/13 easily understand.

Throughout the school day, STARS behaviour (Self-responsibility, Teamwork,Attitude, Respect, Safety) is encouraged and recognised. Morgan is never happier than when he brings home a little yellow sheet on which he has check marks for meeting any of those goals that day. That type of reinforcement of positive behaviour is invaluable and, often, the only time some of the kids get it. So, imo, there is some light at the end of the tunnel.