Intolerance occurs when we don’t take the time to understand each other. Intolerance begins when people have differing opinions, don’t agree on the rules, find someone else’s behavior peculiar or annoying and choose to judge each other rather than show curiosity and seek understanding.

Students at Erie Elementary School are learning to view each other through “mirrors and windows.” When we see someone as a “mirror,” we see ourselves reflected in that person. When we see someone as a “window,” students are encouraged to see this as an opportunity to be curious and learn.

It’s easy to get along with a “mirror.” It is harder to seek understanding when confronted with an opinion, a rule or a behavior that doesn’t align with your own beliefs and values. We must learn to tolerate and accept each other and ourselves.

Students understand that they are in control of their behavior. What comes out of their mouths and the behaviors that they choose affect the people around them in either negative or positive ways. It is our individual commitment that creates the loving space that is Erie Elementary School.

Ask your child which value they chose to commit to this year. Note that 4th and 5th grade students received this lesson during the weeks of August 29 and September 5. 2nd and 3rd grade student will receive this lesson during the weeks of September 12 and September 19. Kindergarten and 1st grade students will receive this lesson during the weeks of September 26 and October 3.