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About Us
The Virtue Of the Week (VOW) program was developed due to the serious lack of materials available to help parents and educators develop very critical character traits in young children. To meet the needs of as many students as possible, the VOW program incorporates many learning styles and is at the same time very fun and engaging. In addition to virtue development, another important goal of the program is to help students develop independence and a positive self image from being able to accomplish things on their own.
Program Philosophy
VOW classes are based on the belief that each one of us is born with potential and can develop our positive natural qualities by “Nurturing the Gems Within.”
The VOW Program
With this philosophy in mind, each week a new virtue is presented. Through storytelling, the language of the virtue is introduced. Through art, the virtue is reflected. Through song, it is brought to life. Through drama, teachable moments are created.
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"We show loving-kindness and respect to all people and living things. We enjoy learning about the virtues within us." |
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In the Classroom
Students are expected to practice the virtues by
respecting classroom boundaries:
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Be Respectful. |
Treat others with respect, so they will know how to treat you. |
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Be Considerate. |
Feel free to do anything that doesn’t cause a problem for anyone
else. |
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Be Responsible. |
If you cause a problem, work to solve it. |
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Be Humble. |
If you can’t solve a problem, or choose not to, ask for help. |
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Be Obedient. |
Accept consequences if you break the rules – then get a fresh
start. |
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Be Peaceful. |
If you feel something is unfair, whisper to me, “I’m not sure
that’s fair,” and we can talk. |
At Home
To encourage virtue training during the week, students
receive the following:
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Virtue Booklet describing each virtue
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Weekly Virtue Activities Calendar to help create teachable moments
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Virtue Giftlet which is a small gift that
serves as a concrete reminder of the virtue
In the Community at Large
Throughout the year students are encouraged to practice such virtues as
service, compassion, kindness, generosity, etc. by supporting various
service projects such as
Reed to FeedŽ, New Beginnings,
and Parents as Teachers.
Just for Fun
Periodically special fun review days are held such as Spring Field Day,
VOW in the Park and VOW-O-WEEN. During these events all activities are
associated with a virtue. For example, the limbo (flexibility), water
balloon toss (excellence), cheeto toss (self-discipline), face painting
and pumpkin decorating (creativity), cup cake walk (patience), bubble area
(joyfulness), sack race (determination), snack area (moderation), etc.
These events have proven to be very successful with students and parents
alike!
Guest Presenters/Performers
Another important aspect of the VOW program is the integration of guest
performers/presenters when possible. For example, musicians playing
background music for stories or skits add a whole new dimension to
story time. Other examples of this past year’s guest include: peace/police
officer (peacefulness), dog trainer and dogs (purposefulness), fireman
(service), marital arts expert (self-discipline).
Where are VOW Classes?
Currently classes are held worldwide.
Contact us and see if there is a VOW program in your area.
How Can I Start My Own VOW Program?
Visit the
Get Started section
of our website for more information on starting your own VOW program.
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