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 Character DevelopmentAspen Academy uses the Wise Words curriculum at grades K-2, and the Wise Quotes curriculum for grades 3-5. These curricula focus on well-known people in history, across many cultures, who can serve as role models for our students. Rather than simply teach our students about attributes such as setting a good example, conflict resolution, perseverance, or honesty, they read about people who embody these values. What is it about setting a good example they can learn from Cesar Chavez? What can they learn about conflict resolution from reading about Gandhi? What can they learn about perseverance from Helen Keller? What can Sojourner Truth teach us about honesty?
Over the course of the year, students cover eight different units as part of their time with the Specialists as follows:
- Phy Ed - Conflict Resolution, Personal Goals
- Music - Self Discipline, Relationships
- Spanish - Respect, Citizenship
- Art - Positive Attitude, Responsibility
Each unit includes such biographies, which fits nicely with the Core Knowledge emphasis on history and reading. Other activities that the teacher may incorporate, depending on the topic and grade level, include discussion topics, class activities, service projects, read-alouds, media tie-ins, and creative connections. How do these character traits translate to the day-to-day expectations for Aspen students?
Conflict Resolution -- This means adults don't just settle disputes,
they work with students to give them the skills to solve disagreements with their peers.
Personal Goals -- We talk a lot about Aspen being the best school ever.
What does each student need to do to make this happen?
Self-Discipline -- This means students being in charge of themselves so the adults don't have to.
That's what being grown up is all about.
Relationships -- We talk about what it takes to be a good friend. And we don't allow bullying!
We talk about what it looks like, and what to do if we see it happening.
Respect -- Kids need to respect adults. Adults need to respect kids.
Everyone deserves it, and we have to practice it a lot.
Citizenship -- How can we be good citizens at school?
Play fair, share, take turns, include others, be kind.
Positive Attitude -- Always try your best, be honest, help others, do a good job.
It makes Aspen the kind of place everyone wants to be.
Responsibility -- Come to school on time, be prepared, have your homework done.
You are responsible for your own learning!
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