Giving Back

A few weeks ago my wife asked me to help her make a TV commercial for the YMCA. She is the marketing director and she was looking for two individuals to give testimonials on why they are a member of the Y.
The idea behind my piece was related to the mentoring project. I was to share how the Y has allowed me an opportunity to give back to my community. The mentoring project is designed to help address the fatherless epidemic in America. Through a partnership with Big Brothers and local churches the Y is trying to match kids with positive role models.
The main reason I decided to become a mentor was because I was a little growing up. I was one of those fatherless kids. I was also fortunate to have a big brother and other men from church who willing invested in my life. Recently I was able to meet my little brother. We have gotten together twice. Both times have been enjoyable. Hopefully I can give back half of what was given to me.

Fitness test

Today I received a couple of emails from national organizations alerting people to the changes related to the Presidential Fitness Test. The unavailing of this change was also revealed during childhood obesity month.
My initial reaction to the change was here is another way that eliminates an opportunity for kids who are athletic to get recognition. I have heard from many parents that the changes to field day don't teach kids life lessons. Sometimes there are winners and losers. Some people may see this change to the test as being very similar. Not everyone is capable of doing well in athletics just like not everyone excels in music or art.
Being a former PE teacher I can see the benefits for switching the test. A lot of high school athletes don't develop lifelong fitness habits. As a result once the are done playing their sport they end up becoming overweight as adults.
In the end I don't think the test that kids take is what makes them healthier. It is the influences they get at home that have the biggest impact. As parents we need to model and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Kindergartners are great

Kindergarten students will often say what they think. Sometimes this can be good, sometimes this can be bad. It is also a reminder to adults that we should watch what we say around them.
Yesterday I visited the kindergarten class at my school. I had told the students to ignore me when I entered the room. One little guy was sitting on the floor and said "Mr. Bell is not here just ignore him", as he tried not to look at me.
Another student was in the bathroom while the class was chorally responding to the teacher. This student echoed the response from the bathroom. Now that is dedication.
Just a couple of examples of some great kindergartners.

Saved by the Bell?

Why is my blog titled saved by the bell? I took the title from the 80s tv show. Not because I was a fan of the show, okay I did watch it, but more because I am a principal who's last name happens to be bell. And as I recall the setting for the show was a school. I am not claiming that I have saved lives. However, I do hope to impact them. I thought this would be a good way to keep track of the things I experience as a principal. Some will be funny, some will not. But hopefully you will get a glimpse into the world of an elementary school.