Essential+55

Dear Family:

Throughout this school year the 5th Grade Staff will be working with your child to develop and/or maintain specific social skills. The program we will use centers around The Essential 55 by Ron Clark. The Essential 55 is a collection of amazingly effective rules covering all aspects of life, from the classroom to the world, from human interactions to cafeteria and bathroom manners. Students will be encouraged to utilize the skills taught, not only in school and school-related activities, but outside of school as well.

As a parent, by being aware of our program, discussing and modeling the skills with your child, we are confident that you, too, will notice the benefits of this program. Along with this letter, we have included the areas in which we feel are the most important of the Essential 55. Our goal is that you, your child, family, friends, classmates, teachers, community members, etc. will see success.

If you have any questions or comments regarding this program at any time, please do not hesitate to give us a call. We also encourage you to pick up a copy of the book to help reinforce the skills at home.

Sincerely,

The 5th Grade Staff



List of Essential Skills:


 * Appropriately responds to adults by saying, “Yes” or “No” instead of nodding or saying any other forms of yes or no.
 * Makes eye contact when someone is speaking. If someone makes a comment, turns and faces that person.
 * Respects other people’s comments, opinions, and ideas.
 * If wins or does well at something, does not brag. If loses, does not show anger or sarcasm.
 * If asked a question in conversation, asks a question in return.
 * If coughs or sneezes, turns head away from others and covers mouth. Afterwards, says, “Excuse me.”
 * Does not smack lips, tsk, roll eyes, or show disrespect with gestures.
 * Says thank you __within three seconds__ of receiving something.
 * When given something from someone, never insults that person by making negative comments about the gift or insinuates that it wasn’t appreciated.
 * Surprises others by performing random acts of kindness.
 * Never asks for a reward.
 * Homework is turned in each day for each subject.
 * Makes every effort to be as organized as possible.
 * When assigned chores or homework, there is no moaning or complaining.
 * Obeys and respect substitute teachers.
 * Greets people using their names. For example, “Good morning, Mr. Herman. I like your tie.”
 * When offered food, never takes more than fair share or takes the biggest amount for themselves.
 * If someone drops something, picks it up and hands t back to them even if the other person is closer to the object.
 * Holds the door open for others.
 * If someone bumps into them, even if it was not their fault, says, “Excuse me.”
 * Answers the telephone in an appropriate manner.
 * Lets an adult know if someone or something is bothering them.
 * Is positive and enjoys life.