A Newry boys’ school has issued an appeal to both parents and pupils ahead of their return to school tomorrow (September 1) simply asking, “Be kind”.
St Joseph’s Boys’ High School are starting as they mean to go on this year in aspiring to create an environment of acceptance, tolerance and kindness… and stamp out bullying.
The school’s mission statement has always been, “To challenge staff and pupils to develop to their potential and make life-long learning the focus within an enjoyable, supportive environment”.
And to help create that “enjoyable and supportive” environment the Armagh Road school – where Mrs Muckian acts as Principal – said to parents ahead of the big return: “School starts tomorrow but before your children arrive please take five minutes and explain to them that being very tall, short, chubby, skinny or a different skin colour is not a reason to be laugh or be unkind.
“Or is the student wears the same shoes every day. Explain to them that a used schoolbag carries the same dreams as a new one.
“Please teach them not to exclude anyone for ‘being different’ or not having the same possibilities they may have.
“Explain to them that teasing/bullying hurts… and that they go to school to learn, not to compete.
“You and I have the same value. Education begins at home.
“Teach them love and kindness and how to include others. It will make them better people on life’s journey.”
