“Dara is highly respected and admired by those of us in the field of education.”
Tammy Jackson, workshop participant

“Dara was a dynamic speaker! I left the session with a new energy to take back to the classroom, She touched me in all aspects of life.”
Teacher, Maryland ACSD Conference

Kinder Kids, Safer Schools and Academic Excellence: An Introduction to The Virtues Project for Educators

          

Click here to access the free 30 minute Virtues Project Introduction for Educators (opens in new window)

Gifts of Character utilizes the 5 Strategies of the world renown Virtues Project and offers youth leadership and family outreach programs which administrators, educators, families and students can use to create an environment where students learn to be smart and choose to be good. This is not an add-on curriculum. It is a language and a lens that can be easily integrated into all aspects of your school and community to create a culture of character.

Schools around the world have adopted the five simple strategies of The Virtues Project to bring out the best in both students and educators.

• Attendance increases because students feel safe, valued and connected.
• Student achievement increases because students embrace 21st Century Skills, utilizing their strengths and gaining more confidence in learning.
• Discipline referrals decrease because students feel heard and do not need to act out for attention. Bullies are often transformed into leaders.
• The overall climate of the school is more peaceful and joyful, resulting in less stress for everyone and allowing staff and students to thrive.

Participants will be able to:

• Understand the difference between virtues and values
• Define, recognize and strengthen universal positive qualities of character in students, others and themselves
• Speak the Language of Virtues to acknowledge excellence, to guide and educate, and to correct mistaken behavior
• Recognize Teachable Moments, using difficulties as opportunities for strengthening character
• Set Clear Boundaries using virtues to promote self-discipline, personal responsibility and integrity
• Utilize Restorative Justice to promote positive discipline
• Honor the Spirit of the Whole Child and the school community to create a climate of respect for all
• Develop celebrations and service learning to strengthen joy, meaning and purpose
• Companion others to identify and express their feelings and find their own solutions

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