Honor, still.

Sammy presents to kindergarten students

After coming up with a new name for Shorecrest's Honor Pledge two weeks ago--the Green and Golden Rule--the students set out to garner support from their Lower Division community to request that the name be officially changed. With much planning and collaboration, students readied themselves to go into all classrooms and offices in the Lower Divisions to make their case. Each fourth grader presented the idea to one classroom or office, sharing the story of the birth of the name as well as thoughts about why the name change would be beneficial. Included in their propositions was that the new name connects to the idea of the Golden Rule, shows spirit by referencing school colors, and is catchy and memorable. Student presenters then asked both students and adults to vote using ballots they created. The results of the voting demonstrated that a vast majority of community members are in favor of the name change: 281 to 62.

Fourth graders then met with Mr. Murphy and Dr. Bianco to formally propose the name change, with the support of the Lower Division community.  From this meeting, students received support from the school administrators, but have been charged with some issues to tackle before an official change can occur:

Aliyah and Chloe's poster

• The Pledge is written as a promise, not a rule. Does this matter? 
• How will Pledge signage, that hangs all over school, be changed? 
• How will the school web site--on which the Honor Pledge is posted--be changed to reflect a new name? 
• What about other publications that include the Honor Pledge with the original name?

The students are eager to tackle this next round of challenges. For sure, it has been, and will continue to be, an amazing opportunity for the students to advocate for something in which they believe and to plan and follow a process for change. Stay tuned for more in the coming weeks!

Thanks for helping your children get their We Haz Jazz costumes to school Monday and Tuesday. We are thrilled that the performance is only three days away! If your child has not yet delivered her/his costume, we appreciate your help sending it on Wednesday.

On Sunday I sent an email with the conference schedule attached that, it seems, did not make it to everyone. I apologize! A hard copy of the schedule should have made its way home on Monday. Please, if you need to reschedule your appointment, let me know as soon as you are able. And, I am available next week after school if you would prefer that. Just let me know what works best for you. Thank you to everyone who has already confirmed your appointments.

Upcoming important events:
February 2: We Haz Jazz dress rehearsal, 8:30
February 3, We Haz Jazz performance, 8:30--please join us in the theater!
February 9: conference day
February 14: Valentine's Day--mini celebration, 2:00