Students build character through acts of kindness

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Students build character through acts of kindness
7 March 2006, Belleville, Ontario—This week, students and staff throughout the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board are taking extra steps to show their commitment to building character. Many schools are hosting events to recognize Violence Awareness and Random Acts of Kindness Week.

“One of the goals of the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board is to teach children to become good citizens. Being respectful, tolerant, showing compassion and recognizing that every person is different are examples of positive character traits which are embraced by school communities,” remarks Judy Edgar, Chair of the Board.

“Random Acts of Kindness” initiatives taking place in HPEDSB schools
Students and staff are taking part in various initiatives this week:

Circulation of “Pay it Forward” or “Kindness” cards to record random acts of kindness. Cards are posted on kindness trees or bulletin boards.
Kindness quotes read on the morning announcements.
Recognition of individuals who have demonstrated an act of kindness.
“Wear blue day” and “blue ribbon day” to show support against violence.
Bulletin board displays depicting acts of kindness and what they mean.
A screening of the award-winning video “United” which portrays an inner-city child who, through his love of basketball, rallies the people of the world to fight for his right to play. The movie is set to rap music highlighting the 30 human rights for everyone around the world.
Colouring and poster contests for younger children.

The Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board has 46 elementary and eight secondary schools serving 18,400 students, employing 1,070 teachers and 705 support staff. The Board covers a wide geographical area of 7,221 square kilometres bordered by Maynooth to the north, Deseronto to the east, Prince Edward County to the south, and Quinte West to the west.

For more information, contact:
• Kerry Donnell, Communications Officer, (613) 966-1170 or 1 800 267-4350, extension 2354