THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, May 31, 1996 TAG: 9605310023
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A14 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 31 lines
Regarding ``Norfolk schools teaching students how to be good people'' (May 10): Implementation of a ``character education'' course is an excellent concept; however, my concerns lie with those who will be chosen to teach the courses.
Teaching character-building would seem more difficult than teaching the three R's, because in order to be effective one's behavior must be consistent with the lessons being taught.
One of the most valuable gifts you can give another is a good example (practice what you preach). Too often there is chaos in the classroom because there is no leadership in the classroom.
Teachers should not be burdened with the responsibility of raising our children. However, while in the classroom teachers should take charge.
A classroom is no place for the ``It's just a paycheck'' mentality. It is difficult to teach honesty, respect, integrity, etc., if you don't possess these traits. You cannot be a peacemaker if you are not at peace with yourself.
I graduated from high school in 1972, and I'll agree that times have changed. However, the 16 character traits mentioned by the committee were being taught in my classrooms daily, but not from a textbook. My teachers exemplified these traits, and I learned by what I saw, not from what I heard.
VANESSA L. STORY
Norfolk, May 14, 1996 by CNB