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 Dr. Glaze advocates for character education in KPRD schools Morals and values, not just academics, need to be taught in the public education system, according to Dr. Avis Glaze, Director of the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. Dr. Glaze began to make her case about the necessity of character education in the Kawartha Pine Ridge District schools during an opening presentation at the Peaceful Communities Forum, yesterday, October 23. "Without character education, what is happening in our communities?" Dr. Glaze asked the audience of about 220, implying increased adverse affects. Dr. Glaze focused her presentation on identifying and explaining the foundations that are needed to establish a peaceful community. She began by identifying the need for a robust education system, "for it is the lifeblood of democracy" and spoke about the possible challenges to attaining this robust system, primarily poverty. Character education, helping students to develop those traits which are universally accepted as fundamental to "being human," was included as an important component of a robust education system. Dr. Glaze shared her experiences with introducing a character education program in the schools in the York Region, where she was a director previously. After rallying skeptical members of the board to her side, she got the support of representatives from many different segments of the community, including the faith community, law enforcement, social services, education, health and the political sector. Together they identified ten character traits they believe it is important for children and youth to develop, including respect, responsibility, and honesty. A program was woven into the already existing curriculum to help teachers help the youth develop these traits. "I believe character education is already making a significant difference in all the York Region schools," said Dr. Glaze, adding that she has visited all of the schools and seen some of the effects herself. Research verifies that the program has had many positive results with the students, from decreases in violence to improvements in reading. "I hope that we will be able to have a character education program in the Kawartha Pine Ridge District schools," said Dr. Glaze. "We must do that for our communities." Dr. Glaze completed her presentation with words of encouragement to all people involved in advocacy and volunteerism, as well as those working towards a peaceful community, that they must recognize at all times that they are making a difference, and not become weary in doing good.
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