Grace and Courtesy 

When conflicts arise, the teacher or assistant first observes to see whether the children are able to resolve the situation independently. If support is needed, the adult gently guides the children by offering language that helps them speak honestly about their feelings and the impact of their actions. A peace rose is used to support meaningful apologies and reconciliation. Through face-to-face communication, patience, courtesy, self-control, empathy, and forgiveness, children practice Christ-centered virtues and learn reconciliation as a natural part of daily life in a mixed-age classroom.

As the children progress through our programs, they begin to take on the role of conflict resolution among peers through the lessons learned in the Primary classroom. Sometimes conflicts are resolved through our community meetings, and other times it will require a one-on-one conversation utilizing the tools given the students in their younger years.

Students are taught to follow scriptue in solving personal quarrels as proclaimed in Matthew 18:15 “If your brother* sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother.” This teaches the students of Our Lady’s Montessori School to be True in our words and actions. Thereby leading them away from talking ill of one another and preventing the vice of gossip.