Dear Central Families,

Spring is around the corner and the pace is picking up! We are almost at the end of our third quarter and preparing for the final quarter of the school year.  The “hustle and bustle” can be challenging this time of year, but we are confident that we will be able to keep students focused on learning and complete another outstanding year in a calm manner.

This is a great time of year to be reminded to respect one another--which leads us to our Character First trait for this month “Tolerance.”  Tolerance means to accept people for who they are—which includes their differences.  Differences may include:  family, culture, physical features, and mental aptitude.  The five keys to tolerance are:

1. Give room to grow—You will make mistakes as you learn to grow.

2. Learn from your mistakes.

3. Accept others—Every one is different. Differences shouldn’t separate you.

4. Look at yourself—Whenever you feel annoyed by someone, check to see if you  have the same flaws in your life.

5. Curb the urge—Be careful what you say when someone irritates you.

6. Overlook faults—Tolerance facilitates teamwork.  It is a willingness to get along  with others.  Hard work makes relationships succeed.

This month’s character trait also suggests “Zero Tolerance” for people who abuse drugs or alcohol, bullying, verbal abuse, or cheating at school.  Let’s remind our students to, avoid people who are involved in these activities and tell a teacher, counselor, or administrator if they are a victim or know someone who is a victim.

SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT AT HOME…

Parents, we encourage you to read the following questions and discuss the answers with your child:

1. What is one unique feature that you appreciate in each family member?

2. How can tolerance improve your family relationships? School relationships?

1. How should you respond if someone asks you to do something wrong?

Tolerance Poems by: Sri Chinmoy 
Tolerance is not peace,
But from tolerance, In the near or distant future,
Peace may blossom.

~If I cannot have compassion-power,    
Let me have forgiveness-power.  
If I cannot have forgiveness-power,  
Let me have tolerance-power.  
If I cannot have tolerance-power,  
Let me at least delay  
My judgment-power.

Tolerance is compassion disguised~

During this busy time of the year--while we prepare for many achievements and activities, let us remember to be sensitive to each other’s feelings and needs. We WILL reach higher heights and greater goals, because, we are the mighty, mighty Tigers and we will never be defeated, as one parent stated: 

“Central Middle School is the best kept secret in Edmond!”

The Tiger Administration,

Tara Fair, Principal

Brandon Kysar, Asst. Principal

Geri Woody, Asst. Principal