Bear Spirit Last year, one goal shared by all staff members, was to implement our renewed character education program. Over the course of the year, all students were given the opportunity to learn about six virtures identified as the "Bear Spirit". These virtues are Courage, Determination, Enthusiasm, Respect of Self, Respect of Others, and Sharing. Through school assemblies, incentive programs, writing contests, literature study and other exciting activities, students were invited to "make a difference" by exemplifying these virtues. This program was a true success and it will continue this year. All students will continue to learn about the six vitures and we will continue to provide opportunities for all children to serve on many community projects.

Courage Courage applies to moral strength that makes a person face any danger, trouble, or pain steadily and without fear. This is our Oath of Courage: • Be Brave in front of what is not right • Speak the truth • Go out of your way to protect the ones who are intimidated • Try again if you make a mistake

Determination A fixed purpose; great firmness in carrying out a purpose. This is our Oath of Determination: • When taking a challenge, work with all your heart, all your strengths, all your soul. • Go all the way too the end. • When comes the time, after giving the best you can, accept the outcome with dignity. • Encourage others to achieve their own dreams.

Respect Feel or show honor or esteem for (self and others). Show consideration for (self and others). This is our Oath of Respect: • Smile to someone • Care about someone • Protect the land and the water • Talk to someone • Laugh with someone • Help the ones in need • Defend the defenseless

Sharing Use together; enjoy together; have in common. This is our Oath of Sharing: • Share your possessions • Share your time • Share your joy • Be there for the ones who suffer

Enthusiasm Eager interest; zeal. Enthusiast: A person who is moved by his feelings for a cause. This is our Oath of Enthusiasm: • Respond to the call: "Here I am" • Try! Even if the task is hard and longer than expected. • Put your gifts and your talents to work.

Bear Rules . . . • From 12:15 to 12:43, please go outside or in a supervised area. • Refrain from using any electronic communication devices in the classroom (cell phones, iPods, etc.). • Keep the school clean: lockers, classroom, hallways, playground, etc. • Treat your fellow students and staff with dignity and respect. Smile! Be grateful! Be welcoming!

Cell Phones and Personal Electronic Devices Does your son or daughter own a cell phone or any other electronic communication device? If the answer is yes, please read what follows. It is important for all parents and students to understand our school policy on cell phones and other electronic communication devices: Personal electronic communication devices (cell phones, i-pods, blackberry, walkman, etc.) are not allowed in the classroom. Two-way electronic communication such as phone conversation, text messaging, downloading of information or transmitting pictures poses a real problem to us all. The disruption caused by accessing cell phones during class time is simply not respectful. Furthermore, these devices have a significant dollar value and too many of them are reported lost. We have telephones in each classroom and a cell phone is simply not needed in school. We really appreciate your support on the issue.