Notes From Mr. Snell's Office

America's White Table

To honor the men and women who have served in America's Armed Forces, Dodgen MS set up what is referred to as "America's White Table."  Health teacher, Roberta Fletcher, came to me with this unique idea.  With my enthusiastic approval, she set a table in our school cafeteria.  This is the 2nd year that Ms. Fletcher has provided this wonderful display.  The little white table we have set for Veteran's Day at Dodgen MS is just like the ones that have stood in American dining halls of the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy.  A small table is used to show one soldier's lonely battle against many.  It is covered with a white cloth to honor a soldier's pure heart when they answer their country's call to duty.  A lemon slice and grains of salt are placed on a plate to show a captive soldier's bitter fate, and the tears of families waiting for loved ones to return.  An empty chair is pushed to the table for the missing soldiers who are not here.  A black napkin is placed on the table to reflect the sorrow of captivity.  A glass is turned over to symbolize the meal that will not be eaten.  A white candle is placed on the table to reflect peace.  A red rose is placed in a vase and tied with a red ribbon in the hope that all of our missing will return one day.  It is difficult for us to understand the suffering that adults sometimes must go through to protect their families and friends that make up our great country, America.  The little white table should serve as a meaningful reminder to all of us, young and old.

New Year's Resolution?

The term "resolution" has several definitions.  When used in conjunction with the prospect of a new year, one dictionary has defined the word resolution as "something determined or decided upon, as a course of action."  This is the time of year when many individuals contemplate the feasibility of establishing their own resolutions.  Rather than offering a new beginning, may I simply suggest to students that you be resolute each day as you continue your quest to develop good character.  To be resolute means to be determined.  It often takes resolute courage to do what you know is right.  True friends will appreciate your actions and follow your good example.  Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "no one can make you feel inferior without your consent."  Further, I contend that no one can take away your resolve to do the right thing without your consent.  It is your job as students to make good choices.  It is our responsibility as educators to assist in your quest to keep your resolution of establishing greatness of character, as well as achieving academic success.  I am thankful that we have so many outstanding young ladies and young gentlemen who attend Dodgen Middle School.  I look forward to being there for you in 2008.

Character Education

As noted on the Cobb County web site:

The Cobb County Character Education program was formed to support parents' efforts in developing good character in their children.  The purpose of the Character Education program is to integrate good character traits into the total school environment, as well as into the community. These words and definitions focus on the attitudes and personal qualities that build a foundation for success in life and work. These character traits are embedded throughout the curriculum and are a daily focus of both students and school staff members.

We acknowledge the importance of teaching and/or encouraging traits associated with good character at Dodgen Middle School.  Patty Smith, Dodgen's 2005-2006 Teacher of the Year and 7th grade teacher, has voluntarily assumed the responsibility of promoting awareness of Character Education at school.  She provides information and a short paragraph that relates to the current character word of the week.  Someone (usually a student) will read the paragraph during morning announcements.  Student Council homeroom representatives are then responsible for displaying the word poster in an appropriate place within their classroom.  I have included the Word of the Week paragraph as prepared by Ms. Smith from December 19, 2005 in italics below:

The Character Education Word of the Week is "kindness."  Mother Theresa once said, "kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless."  During this holiday season, be sure to speak many kind words to as many people as you can.  Your kindness will be echoed in their lives for a long time to come.  Your kindness is also a sign of good character.

Ms. Smith is pictured below at a Teacher of the Year celebration in October with some of her students.  She is also pictured in the East Cobb Parade along with Marlene Geisel, Dodgen's Guidance Clerk and School Professional of the Year.  Pat Giuliani, parent volunteer, has been kind enough to drive for the parade event for the past three years.  And yes, the old guy in the front passenger seat is me.

 

Bullying Prevention Program

Last school year teachers and staff decided to embark on the lofty mission of getting rid of bullying in all of its various forms.  We decided to use the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program model to assist our efforts.  This is a research-based multilevel program for schools.  Do not misunderstand; Dodgen students are the very best.  You will not find more responsible, well-mannered, and respectful students anywhere.  Bullying, however, takes place at every school in the United States.  Sometimes students and adults (you and I) without even realizing it, display the characteristics of being a bully.  Staff efforts are directed toward improving peer relations and making the school a positive place for students to learn.  We administered a student survey last year to determine areas that may require intervention.  This year we had planned a kick-off program which took place today.  A group of Dodgen students under the direction of 7th grade teacher, Ms. Stephens, and parent, Ms. Allison, created a role playing drama that was presented today.  Ms. Klodnicki video taped the event.  Short-term objectives for this year are for students to have an awareness of what bullying behavior is, to know the difference between harmless teasing and verbal bullying, to know what their role is as a bystander, and to have monthly class meetings on given topics related to bullying.  Staff Bullying Committee team members are Ms. Barzegar, Ms. Douglas, Ms. Leonard, Ms. Rusk, Ms. R.Smith, Ms. Stephens, Ms. Stoller, Ms. Sturtevant, Mr. Whittington, Coach Wilkes, and Mr. Wilson.