Thank you third grade

I have to admit that I have been busy and have neglected my ECS blog. Today I had 47 comments from ECS third grade students, who told me how their school year was going so far. Thank you third graders for reminding me what a wonderful school we have at ECS! As you talked about your amazing teachers, all the activities you participate in, what you are learning in class, how thankful you are for your school, and how much you enjoy your friends I was impressed again by the academic and extra-curricular opportunities students have at Evansville Christian School. Your comments made my day!

Recently I was reading about the importance of building a culture of leadership within our students. The "7 Habits" in kids' language look like this:

Habit 1, Be Proactive: I am a responsible person; I take initiative; I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods. I do not blame others for my wrong actions, and I do the right thing without being asked, even if no one is looking.

Habit 2, Begin with the end in mind: I plan ahead, set goals, and do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my schools' mission and vision.

Habit 3, Put first things first: I spend my time on things that are most important, which means I say no to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and achieve my goals. I am disciplined and well-organized.

Habit 4, Think win-win: I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. I make deposits in others' emotional bank accounts. When conflicts arise, I look for alternatives. I look for ways to be a good citizen.

Habit 5, Seek first to understand, then to be understood: I listen to other people's ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints, I listen to others without interrupting, I am confident in voicing my ideas, and I look people in the eyes when talking.

Habit 6, Synergize: I value other people's strengths and learn from them. I work well in groups, even with people who are different from me. I seek out other people's ideas to solve problems, because I know that by teaming with others we can create better solutions than any one of us can alone. I am humble.

Habit 7, Sharpen the saw: I take care of my body by eating right, exercising, and getting sleep. I spend time with my family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school. I take time to find meaningful ways to help others.

I see many of these leadership qualities being developed within ECS students at every grade level as a result of incorporating a biblical worldview, teaching good study habits, and implementing effective classroom procedures.

ECS third through eighth grade students will be participating in the third Acuity testing window the weeks of February 15-26 (school is in session on February 15, Presidents' Day as a snow makeup day). The ISTEP Writing Assessment will be during the first week of March.