Principal's Corner
A Note from Mrs. Blumenshine

Mrs. Blumenshine's Blog
#4 Insist on Kindness
#4 Insist on kindness and respect in ALL family interactions. Correct unkind and disrespectful behavior immediately by asking for a "redo." "Can you kindly say that in a more respectful way?" "What do you think is a fair consequence for speaking disrespectfully - one that will help you remember the rule?" #defenderpride
Model Kindness
#3 Model kindness in word and deed. Treat youor children kindly. Set an example of kindess and respect by how you treat and talk about persons outside the family such as relatives, neighbors, and teachers.
Stay tuned for #4...
Kindness... 5 Simple Things
As I mentioned, kindess is the theme for this school year. I recently read an article that mentioned 5 simple things you can do to raise kind kids, and I thought about how perfectly it related to our theme.
#1 Use the language of kindness in your family through words such as, "that was a kind thing to do" or "how can you settle this in a kind and peaceful way." Together, we can help our students show kindness in many situations, environments, and experiences.
#2 Brainstorm ways to practice kindness as a family. Together, make a list of ways to exhibit kindness. For example, holding the door for a person behind you or offering to help around the house without being asked or being friendly to someone who is having a bad day.
Stay tuned for more... #defenderpride
Fall Is Upon Us...
I can hardly believe that Fall is upon us! It seems like just yesterday we were enjoying the summer sun. Oh wait, we were... Anyway, the students and teachers have settled in, and we're back into the routine of learning and challenging our minds on a daily basis. We are blessed to have the Defender families that we do, and we will continue to do our best to educate the whole child. Our theme for the year is Kindness is Contagious. As Aesop said, "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."