Tomorrow is the big day.  Mia starts as a kinder and Jack joins me at OE.  I can't wait!  The launch of a new school year always means the launch of new programs.  I can't wait to see what the Olweus anti-bullying team accomplishes this year.  All teachers have been trained in the bully circle.  You will get more information about it at Open House next week.  The main premise is that its not okay to stand by and watch somebody get picked on.  I quickly picture the kid who watches and maybe even laughs a bit.  Clearly, that student contributes to the problem, but what about the student who just watches, maybe even feels uncomfortable, but doesn't intervene.  Some kids will never be comfortable intervening on the spot.  What about telling a teacher?  What about telling a parent?  How about telling both?  That is what we are going to ask of all students.  Tell two adults, one at home and one at school.  Together, we can make sure that all kids are comfortable at school, ALL THE TIME, EVERYDAY!

I wonder how many teachers will have the dream where the class won't be quiet on the first day?  I wonder how many students will have the dream of forgetting all their supplies at home?

Welcome back.