There is Chinese proverb that says: “Tell me and I'll forget. Show me and I may remember. Involve me and I'll understand.” I am requesting that our school parents please discuss at home with your students the proper respect that is to be shown to adults and peers and the pitfalls of using inappropriate language. As the primary educators of your children it falls on you to teach and model appropriate and acceptable behavior. We at St. Rose of Lima School do our part to teach students what behavior is acceptable and what is unacceptable. We have established guidelines so that our students can function easily in an environment that is physically and psychologically safe. Over the last few months there has been concern on the part of the staff and parents over the increased incidences of bullying, especially outside of the classroom (recess, lunch, and day care), that have been brought to our attention. This bullying has taken on the forms of verbal aggression, social alienation, and intimidation. This type of behavior cannot be ignored, minimized, or permitted. In the next week all teachers will review behavioral expectations and consequences for misbehavior. A stronger recess and lunch time discipline plan is being formulated which will contain rules or expectations, a system of consequences, and a concentration on positive behavior. Tell students the rules, demonstrate correct procedures, provide time and guidance in practice, and then re-teach and maintain those behaviors, 80% to 90% or more of our students will demonstrate pro-social behaviors – that is our goal!