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17 · Wednesday, October 17, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com OPEN HOUSE Saturday October 20th, 10am-2pm "Because Your Children Only Get One Childhood" Accredited Member Ontario Independent Schools 2463 Lakeshore Road East (905) 337-8283 info@clanmore.ca Students inspired by programs By Teresa Tong At Rotherglen School, Character Education is a deliberate effort to cultivate positive personal attributes and civility amongst our students. It is a whole-school effort to create a community where positive attitudes, values and behaviours are fostered. For the past several years, Rotherglen has worked with two organizations, Free the Children and Me to We. Both organizations encourage young people to create change for the better, whether it be in their community or someone else's. On September 28, 63 Grade 8 students joined 20, 000 other youths in Toronto to take part in one of the most inspirational events of the year, We Day. This day brought young people together to motivate them to take action in changing our world. Speakers, such as Al Gore and Spencer West, and performers, like Jennifer Hudson and Nelly Furtado, captivated the crowds. "Spencer West was so inspiring. If he can climb a mountain on his hands than anyone can accomplish anything," said Grade 8 student Cameron Gesner. Rotherglen students returned from their day in Toronto motivated to make a change. "The day was inspiring. I've already started collecting pennies for clean water, and I am working with some friends at school on initiatives to help support Free the Children," added Colin Moran. Additionally, on October 1, students in Grades 4 through 7 were fortunate enough to be visited by two Massai Warriors from Kenya. Students were particularly taken with the notion that to become a true Maasai warrior one must first kill a lion. "A true warrior has unremitting bravery. These two men have imbued in many people to not be afraid and pursue their dreams," said Julia Lanigan of the warriors. The guests, Wilson and Jackson, spoke about some of their life experiences as Maasai warriors, how Kenya has been impacted by Free the Children, as well as how education is the key to changing one's own path. Kailey Moulson was inspired to be thankful, stating "Living in Oakville makes me so appreciative. It's good to live in a place that respects education and inspires us to be the best we can be." By witnessing the journeys of these warriors, scholars, and inspirational leaders, Rotherglen students have come away knowing that change is not only possible, but also well within their reach. Rotherglen has incorporated a strong Character Education program across all campuses and grade levels. The school looks forward to building upon what has already taken root. As a school, Rotherglen has chosen to be the change that is required in the world, not only its own community, but those that surround it as well. Teresa Tong is Coordinator of the Leadership and Intermediate Division, Rotherglen School. w w w. c l a n m o r e . c a