Teaching values in schools remains a hot topic.
Parents of children in government schools hold the view that in general, values are alive and well in public education. No school is value free, although ACSSO recognises that all schools should always seek to improve what they do, and find out what values the families in their communities want them to promote.
What are 'values'?
Think about values being like internal signposts that affect the way people feel, think and act. Every signpost has two directions positive values such as honesty are balanced by a negative one, dishonesty.
When do children learn about values?
From birth, primarily from parents. Later, parents want their values reinforced by schools.
Actions speak louder than words!
Children are expert in picking the difference between what adults (especially parents and teachers) say and what they do. Developing positive values in children requires adults to be good role models.
Has your school talked with parents about values?
Research shows that relationships between schools and families could be closer and many schools can improve by ensuring that their values are strongly supported by their wider communities.
Parents
Tell us about the person you want your child to be by the time he/she leaves school, or
Tell us how you would like your school to talk with you about values, or
Tell us about the things that your school does to make your child like going to school each day.
Principals and Teachers
Invite ACSSO to give you a call with a view to publicising some of the ways that your school teaches values we can publish your story on our website or in a special newsletter
Tell us about how you have successfully engaged your community (on values or any other important issue).
Everyone
Email us a digital photo of a situation that you think really represents Australian values. We will feature the best on our website.
The Australian Council of State School Organisations (ACSSO) is the peak national organisation representing the interests of the parents, families and school communities of more than two million children attending government schools throughout Australia. ACSSOs formal structure currently comprises ten government school organisations and their membership networks in all States and Territories.
Read more at www.acsso.org.au.