To promote social, emotional and academic success within their classrooms, first-grade teachers have kicked off a new character education initiative. 

The program expands upon the grade level’s existing character education program, Second Step, by adding a set of five character education assemblies.

During the first assembly, held Jan. 9, students learned more about kindness through the song “Try a Little Kindness” and by reading “We’re All Wonders” by R. J. Palacio, a version for younger children of the author’s popular novel, “Wonder.”

The assembly culminated with students pledging to be kind and writing encouraging notes to one another on paper hearts. 

Upcoming assemblies will focus on bullying, empathy, friendship and problem-solving.  

“Our first-grade team believes these assemblies will further engage our students and provide them with additional opportunities to practice and learn from one another in an effort to become better individuals,” said teacher Jonathan DellaSperanza.