"GHS
Students Get a Daily Message via Project Wisdom"
Every morning this semester, Greenville High School students have
started their school day with something to think about.
Teachers, students and members of the community have participated
in the new program at the school, Project Wisdom. It is a character-building
program that urges students to take responsibility for their choices
and actions.
The program, which cost the high school $350, is designed to build
self-esteem by motivating students to do their personal best, and
contribute to the world around them.
Each morning, a thought-provoking message is read to the students
on a variety of topics. Messages include pieces of philosophy, science
and etymology. Topics include accepting the diversity of people,
drug and alcohol abuse, crime, and education. It is hoped that teachers
will use some of the messages as a springboard for discussion in
the classroom.
A teacher committee was formed at the High School for student responsibility
and critical thinking. The Project Wisdom program was selected as
a method to present these concepts to students.
Carole Bohle serves as a chairman of the committee. She reported
that teachers are the key to the success of the program. "It is
hoped that the teachers will make a comment or two about what is
read and give the students an opportunity to express their opinions,"
she stated.
"We're hoping to see some impact, but it is hard to tell. Our goal
is to make students more responsible citizens."
Teachers and administrators stated that students definitely remember
the final statement of each message that tells them it is up to
them whether or not to have a good day.
Todd Cantrill, a member of the committee, believes the program has
a positive effect on the boys and the girls. He said that the Project
Wisdom message wasn't read one day and students wondered why they
hadn't heard it.
Principal Don Dillon is a huge supporter of the program. "The key
is it is a positive thought that talks about a virtue and quotes
a person who expounded that virtue," he stated.
Dillon said the school is trying to keep the students from feeling
like they are victims. "You can see a
difference. This has affected the school climate," he happily
commented. The principal stated he has also received positive comments
from parents whose students have talked about the program at home.
Dillon also believes it is important that members of the community
have been involved as readers. He praised Bohle for coordinating
it.
Bohle stated she has been very pleased with the response from the
members in the community. During the first quarter, past graduates
of GHS have been invited to read.
She indicated that more persons are needed to serve as readers.
Anyone wishing to participate can contact Bohle at the high school.
Project Wisdom messages will be presented to the students throughout
the school year.
Reprinted with
permission
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