23 August 2009

A Complaint Free World

Have you ever monitored how often you complain, gossip or criticize others? If you really stop to think about it, you may be surprised at how much of our every day language and interaction is in the form of a complaint or criticism. A Complaint Free World is an organization that is attempting to address this! At the start of the year, teachers and staff at Williams Middle put on a purple bracelet and made an effort to stop complaining. Each time we notice ourselves complaining, gossiping or criticizing, we are to move the bracelet to the other wrist. If you point out the need for someone else to move their bracelet, then you must move yours first. Research says it takes up to 21 days to form a habit and we are striving to make a habit of being complaint free!

Mrs. Nye, our SPACE teacher, has implemented the curriculum in her classes and other teachers are considering it as well. It is a challenge that I believe we can all learn from! Visit the website for more information: www.acomplaintfreeworld.org

Try it in your family, work place or social group and let us know how it works. We are considering doing this school wide. We may not have a Complaint Free World (yet) but we could certainly start by creating a Complaint Free School. Visit the website and let me know your thoughts!

14 August 2009

Opening Week

Our opening week was wonderful! Your students may be a little tired and so are we! Despite that, I thoroughly enjoyed this week and had the opportunity to meet most, if not all, of my students. I conducted student assemblies by grade level where I introduced myself and other staff members. We discussed everything from dress code to athletics, from the new building to bullying. Students gave me their feedback and also asked questions for clarification. All in all, I believe that the tone has been set for us to have a very successful school year.

I hope you have joined the PTA but if not, please do so. I am proud to say that 100% of the middle school teachers have joined and we will receive the coveted Golden Apple Award as a result!

Thank you for joining my blog and please spread the word so that others will follow suit.

06 August 2009

Thank you!

Thanks to everyone who made it to our New Student Orientation and Open House! I had an opportunity to meet so many wonderful people. I am excited about the upcoming school year and I value your input. My goal is for Williams Middle School to be a Center of Excellence! Together we can make this happen. Soon, I will post information about "Principal's Corner Meetings". What time would work for you? What are your topics of interest? Would you be interested in serving on an Advisory Council for our school? Let me know your thoughts!