I will be teaching the annual Personal Safety Lessons from November 6-13, 2017. Most of the lessons are taught during gym class with the support of Ms. Forney.
A different video is presented to each grade level, but the core message is the same K-5. Students are taught that no one should ever touch them, photograph them or asked to be touched on their private parts (the parts covered by their swim suit). At every grade we teach them: Say No, Get Away, Tell Someone, Be Believed. Delivery of the message is adapted to the age of the students, but the consistency of the message reinforces those steps each year. Unfortunately, more than 90% of cases of sexual abuse are perpetrated by someone the child knows or loves. It is most often a trusted friend of the family or relative. We know that a pattern of "grooming" usually occurs prior to the actual event. With the older students we address this issue also. There is always a fine line between teaching children to be aware and self-protecting, but not fearful. Students will bring home a colored letter from me the day they see the video. This is an opportunity for you to discuss with your children what they have learned and to share your family's beliefs and values. I allow NO personal sharing during these lessons, but I always tell the children that they can come talk to me if this lesson confuses them, if they have worries or want to share something. If your child is bothered by this lesson or can't quit thinking and talking about it after a couple days, please contact me. Rose Park Students added some art to the rose bed in front of the school this fall. Ms. Burris read the book Only One You by Linda Kranz to each class. The students then painted a rock in the style of the painted rock "fish" from the book. Every student designed and painted a "fish" to place in the rose bed. In the book a mom and dad fish decide it's time to share some wisdom with their son. As one of the kindergarten students explained "Wisdom is wise words of advice." Look for copies of those words of wisdom around the school and be sure to check out our "fish" when you come to Parent-Teacher Conferences.
October 23-27 is Red Ribbon Week. At Rose Park we are making a long, red paper chain with a link from each student. The students are writing the names on their link of all the people who care if they use illegal or dangerous drugs. This is a good opportunity for parents to have a discussion about the harms of drug use and the effect of peer pressure. Check out our chain in the main hallway when you come for parent-teacher conferences.
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AuthorMs. Burris is the School Counselor at Rose Park. School Counseling is available to all students upon request by the student, parent or teacher. ArchivesCategories |