At St. Mary's Grade School, we believe that education extends beyond the classroom—it’s about shaping character, fostering strong moral values, and building a community rooted in faith. That’s why we are excited to fully implement Virtue-Based Restorative Discipline (VBRD), a program that integrates faith and character development to nurture a culture of respect, responsibility, and reconciliation.
Each month, our students focus on a specific virtue, learning about its meaning, significance, and how to put it into action in their daily lives. This month, we are shining a light on kindness, a virtue that reflects Christ’s call to love and serve others.
What is Virtue-Based Restorative Discipline?
VBRD is more than just a behavior management approach—it’s a way of living that encourages students to recognize the impact of their actions, seek reconciliation when harm is done, and grow in virtue. By explicitly teaching, modeling, and reinforcing these values, we empower students to take ownership of their choices and strengthen their relationships with others.
A Month of Kindness in Action
Throughout February, students will engage in discussions, activities, and reflections centered on kindness. Teachers will guide conversations about the importance of being friendly, generous, and considerate. Families are encouraged to continue these discussions at home by reading books about kindness, sharing personal experiences, and finding ways to practice kindness together.
Simple acts—like writing encouraging notes to friends, showing gratitude to teachers, or helping a classmate—can make a profound impact. As students embrace kindness in their daily interactions, they help build a more compassionate and supportive school environment.
How You Can Join the Movement
Parents and guardians play a crucial role in reinforcing these lessons at home. We invite families to talk with their children about kindness, ask about their experiences, and find ways to serve the community together. Whether it’s volunteering, showing appreciation for a neighbor, or simply offering a smile, every act of kindness brings us closer to a world filled with God’s love.
By fostering virtues like kindness, we are not just educating students—we are raising future leaders, peacemakers, and disciples of Christ. Let’s continue this journey together, making our school a place where kindness thrives.
