Dalton News

Let’s Hear it for Kindness: Give a Round of ApPAWS!

At First Program, we’re embracing the power of kindness, courtesy, and empathy with our new initiative, “A Round of ApPAWS.” Inspired by Head of School José M. De Jesús’s “Unfraid Project” and collective efforts from the FP faculty and staff, this kindness initiative is not only developmentally appropriate but is deeply aligned with our school’s core values. 
The program officially kicked off a couple of weeks ago with an introduction to kindness and courtesy, and during this past Friday’s House 91, students learned about empathy. We are energized to see so much enthusiasm from the students. The program allows teachers to recognize students who go above and beyond in showing kindness, courtesy, or empathy, strengthening our community in the process. 
 
When a teacher notices a student in a thoughtful act, the teacher can write about it and proudly display the act on a bulletin board for everyone to see. Through classroom modeling, daily conversation, and skits, we’re helping students not just understand what kindness, empathy, and courtesy mean but also see these values in action. Beyond the bulletin board “ApPaws”, every Monday we’ll announce the number of ApPAWS within the division as well highlight a few, anonymously, to inspire more kindness
 
What makes this initiative even more special is that it’s a collective effort. We’re starting with teachers highlighting acts of kindness but eventually, students will be empowered to recognize it in each other. It’s about supporting a culture where kindness thrives naturally and can shape a positive environment that truly reflects Dalton’s core values.
 
Next time you’re at First Program, swing by on the 4th floor to see the bulletin board—already filled with 20+ thoughtful “ApPAWS!”
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(Grades K-3) 53 East 91st Street
New York, NY 10128
General: (212) 423-5200 | Admissions: (212) 423-5463
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(Gr. 4 Dalton East & PE Center) 200 East 87th Street
New York, NY 10128
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(Grade 5-12) 108 East 89th Street
New York, NY 10128
General: (212) 423-5200 | Admissions: (212) 423-5262
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