News

Breaking Down the Steps

Students begin learning proper etiquette early in life.

by The Columns-A Newsletter of the Jackson County School System • October 01, 2005

No doubt about it, we are judged by first impressions, and those who know how to present a good first impression are heads above those who don’t.

That’s why more than 60 4th grade students at East Jackson Elementary School are learning the essentials of good manners each Monday morning.

East Jackson Elementary Principal Jennifer Norris, her PTO and her staff have supported the idea of preparing 4th graders this year. Next year these same students will get a second course while the 4th graders go through the basics.

“We understand how important manners are in helping students get ahead,” Mrs. Norris said. “I’m delighted we have this chance.”

Perfectly Polished, Inc., The Etiquette School program is a copyrighted program taught by Cindy Haygood out of Athens. The program was first developed in Washington D.C., as “the Protocol School” to teach children of diplomats and legislators the basics of good manners. The program was an instant success and has spread across the country. West Jackson Middle School also has a similar, abbreviated program, but this is more intensive.

Norris said. “I’m delighted we have this chance.”

“At the end, we’ll have a banquet, and we are looking forward to seeing how far they have come,” said Gail Elrod, the assistant principal.

Mrs. Haygood pointed out that the classes teach leadership skills as well as friendship skills and personal development. Grandmothers who in the future receive elegant notes of thanks from their grandchildren for presents may be in shock, but it will also help young people patch up the difference in cases of mistakes that hurt another. All are good life skills. Students also learn how to introduce people to each other, and the proper way to shake hands.

Mrs. Norris said that three classes are getting the advantage so far. Mrs. Norris participates in one, Mrs. Evans participates in one and Chris Wren, the school counselor, participates in a third, then they are prepared to ensure that students are practicing what they learn in the halls and grounds of the school.

Tagged: east jackson elementary school, cindy haygood, protocol school, chris wren, jennifer norris, gail elrod