Strong Roots Spreads Seeds of Service: Character Word of the Month

Character Education

The Barnesville School of Arts & Sciences has a new character word each month. We spotlight a new character word to foster personal growth and community engagement.

Character education is a learning process that enables students and adults in our school community to understand, care about and act on core ethical values. Upon such core values, we form the attitudes and actions that are the hallmark of our safe, healthy, and informed community. Character education teaches the habits of thought and deed that help our community live #TheBarnesvilleWay and work together as families, friends, and neighbors.

For the month of October, the Barnesville School focused on the character word "service", encouraging students to explore various ways they can give back and support to those around them. Through mindful discussions and hands-on activities, students engaged in an enlightened journey that highlighted the importance of service.

A Month of Important Conversations and Reflection

Throughout the month conversations centered on acts of service. Teachers lead discussions that encouraged students to think critically about what service means and how it can be shown in everyday life. Many shared personal experiences, discussed community needs, global influences, and explored the impact of kindness and generosity on others outside of self. 

Participating in Acts of Service

A significant initiative this month and ongoing through November, a food drive for the local food bank. Bringing in non-perishable items, students were elated to donate and learn about food insecurity while experiencing the joy of helping others. We hosted a food drive walk, where students took a beautiful stroll around the school, reading signs created about food insecurity. Students went above and beyond to show their support!

In addition to donating to the food bank, the community continues to show their support with Fisher House, a non-profit organization that provides housing for veterans and their families. Students raised donations to support an important cause. Students not only gathered donations but also learned about the importance of service. Many gravitated towards understanding a perspective outside of their own. Having these conversation introduces an ultimate level of consideration, support, and connection. Creating a space for voices to be heard and valued.

The Dandelion Growth Analogy

To deepen their understanding of service, students engaged in an analogy that connected acts of service to the growth process of a dandelion. Just as a dandelion begins with strong roots, each act of service is rooted in compassion and empathy. These strong roots allow the plant to thrive and eventually spread its seeds far and wide. The seeds of service, once sown through our actions, can take root in the hearts of others, inspiring them to engage in acts of kindness. 

This analogy resonated with students, who recognized that their contributions, no matter how small, could inspire others to take action as well. This idea that acts of service could grow and multiply, much like the dandelion's seeds, encouraged them to think of service as an ongoing generosity rather than a one-time event.

A Continuous Impact

As the month comes to a close, the impact of our service initiatives were distinct. Students have a greater sense of community and connection to one another, as well as the needs around them. The discussions and activities not only highlighted the importance of service but also instilled a sense of empowerment among students.

In reflection, this month of "service" has been a profound reminder that each of us has the ability to make a difference. Just as the dandelion thrives and spreads, our acts of service can too. As we move forward, we encourage students to continue to embrace the spirit of service in their daily lives, knowing every small action can lead to significant change.