Todd Elementary Principal Teaches Kids Understanding, Empathy

BRAIRCLIFF MANOR, N.Y. -- Todd Elementary School students at each grade level met with Principal Nadine McDermott this week to learn about the Golden Rule of Todd School and begin their Habits of Mind lessons for the year.

Principal Nadine McDermott takes question from a student during session about Golden Rule of Todd School.
Photo Credit: *Briarcliff Manor Union Free School District*

Briarcliff Manor student addresses principal Nadine McDermott.
Photo Credit: *Briarcliff Manor Union Free School District*

Sandra Diamond Fox

10/01/2015 4:00 p.m.

“Habits of Mind are really patterns of thinking,” McDermott told students. “They are routines that your brain gets into.”

Students contemplated the types of thinking patterns they would like to embrace before McDermott read aloud the book “Just Kidding” by Trudy Ludwig, which explores teasing in schools and its consequences.

Students reflected on the book’s theme and discussed how they can listen to their classmates with understanding and empathy.

"Treat others the way you would want them to treat you,” McDermott said.

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