Today, I saw a student who was being treated poorly in the line as we waited to enter the canteen. This student was teased because they have a darker skin color than some of the other students in their class. This student is quiet, kind, and bright and when she was being teased, her eyes looked at the ground and tears began to form in the corner of her eyes.
I didn't follow my goal in the order I have planned; I went and spoke with the student first. She looked defeated and I wanted to show her how lovely she really is! We spoke about all her positive qualities and how awful it must feel to have someone treat to badly about something you simply cannot help. We hugged and I told her she could talk to me about this issue anytime.
After this important meeting, I went and spoke to the students. I tried to make a connection to their actions, giving them the example of being teased for being a boy or for wearing glasses. I reminded them of our Character Pillars and of the fact that AIS does not tolerate such behavior. I had the students write a letter to the student in apology and write a letter to their teacher and parents to explain what they had done and what they will do next time to change their actions.
In all, I think it was a successful moment of being principled. I learned that when I stand tall for someone who is being hurt, I feel as tall as the Bitexco Tower! I felt stronger than normal and in doing so, gained the confidence I need to continue this trait. I think if we all act with integrity, there will no longer be hurt feelings or bullies. Everyone would work together and help each other.
I didn't follow my goal in the order I have planned; I went and spoke with the student first. She looked defeated and I wanted to show her how lovely she really is! We spoke about all her positive qualities and how awful it must feel to have someone treat to badly about something you simply cannot help. We hugged and I told her she could talk to me about this issue anytime.
After this important meeting, I went and spoke to the students. I tried to make a connection to their actions, giving them the example of being teased for being a boy or for wearing glasses. I reminded them of our Character Pillars and of the fact that AIS does not tolerate such behavior. I had the students write a letter to the student in apology and write a letter to their teacher and parents to explain what they had done and what they will do next time to change their actions.
In all, I think it was a successful moment of being principled. I learned that when I stand tall for someone who is being hurt, I feel as tall as the Bitexco Tower! I felt stronger than normal and in doing so, gained the confidence I need to continue this trait. I think if we all act with integrity, there will no longer be hurt feelings or bullies. Everyone would work together and help each other.