Sunday, January 20, 2008

We can Follow MLK's Dream

Classroom Pledge of Nonviolence

Making peace must start within ourselves and in our classroom. Each of us, members of ________________class at______________________ School, on this day, _______________________, 20__, commit ourselves as best we can to become nonviolent and peaceable people.

To Respect Self and Others
To respect ourselves, to affirm others and to avoid uncaring criticism,
hateful words, physical attacks and self-destructive behavior.

To Communicate Better
To share our feelings honestly, to look for safe ways to express our anger,
and to work at solving problems peacefully.

To Listen
To listen carefully to one another, especially those who disagree with us,
and to consider others' feelings and needs rather than insist on having our own way.

To Forgive
To apologize and make amends when we have hurt another,
to forgive others, and to keep from holding grudges.

To Respect Nature
To treat the environment and all living things,
including our pets, with respect and care.

To Play Creatively
To select activities and toys that support our classroom's values and to avoid activities that make violence look exciting, funny or acceptable.

To Be Courageous
To challenge violence in all its forms whenever we encounter it, whether at home, at school, or in the community, and to stand with others who are treated unfairly.

This is our pledge. These are our goals. We will check ourselves on what we have pledged once a month on the _____________day of the month for this school year so that we can help each other become more peaceable people.

"Eliminating violence, one classroom at a time, starting with our own."

Institute for Peace and Justice
475 East Lockwood Ave., St. Louis, MO 63119
Phone: (314) 918-2630 --- Fax: (314) 918-2643

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A WEEKLY Note from Mrs. Grabarz

As we enter Winter Weather, please make sure to send home the Emergency Closing Form with your child. This enables us to help know how to send them home in case of an emergency closing.

Please make sure your child has a healthful snack, like fruit, crackers and cheese or a granola bar. We do not eat until almost 1 PM, so they get very hungry during our morning together. A water bottle would also be wonderful! Please do not send in colorful drinks (like Gatorade) as they stain the carpet when spilled!

Thank you for sending in all the cans for our Food Drive! West Woods really cares for our less fortunate neighbors!!