FMS recently introduced a hands-on way to involve students in meaningful community service projects through in-school service days held Dec. 4 and 5. The new program, which is centered on the school’s commitment to character education, offers students concrete opportunities to understand and act on five core strengths: respect, responsibility, perseverance, curiosity and community service.
“Our Character Education Committee Chairperson, Karolyn Pepper, came up with in-school service days as a way to help students to develop character traits that will support their growth into responsible citizens,” said Principal Michael Laster. “This includes supporting the community and respecting its members. We also wanted to choose activities that encourage students to take initiative, problem-solve and reflect on the impact their actions have on the community.”
FMS students participated in several service projects designed to foster a sense of agency and pride. Working in small groups, students crafted plaques to recognize school staff, designed brick murals to beautify the school, cleaned classrooms, created holiday cards for seniors and members of the military, and participated in Positive Education training with students and faculty from Russell Sage.
“At FMS, we look to educate students holistically to prepare them for life in a fast-paced society that requires resilience, adaptability and critical thinking,” said Laster. “Character development is an essential part of shaping young minds. It drives students to take responsibility for their own behavior and learning.”
The FMS character education program focuses on building social-emotional skills, such as empathy, self-control and conflict management. Research suggests these skills can help foster academic success, reduce behavioral problems and bolster interpersonal relationships. These competencies not only help students thrive, but contribute to a community with less conflict, open communication and deeper mutual understanding.
FMS plans to offer additional in-school service days in the future.
