"As a principal of an elementary school, I can't think of a more valuable program. It is obvious that the development of empathy should be at the heart of any character education. The dramatic call for anti-bullying programs by politicians, parents, students and educators is sufficient evidence. The essence of It's OK to be Different is the development of empathy by targeting stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination. I know of no other program that does this so well.
Besides involving various segments of the community in implementation, the program avoids the usual charge of 'just one more thing' in the overloaded curriculum. Because of the involvement of all the language arts components - reading, writing, listening, speaking and viewing - the teacher can readily use the program to supplement instruction.
However, the most important contribution of the program to the elementary school is the establishment of a common language of empathy. As a principal, I was able to use the concepts of It's OK to resolve conflicts, establish an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding and create programs of community involvement.
We had a wonderful school, renowned throughout the area, and, I believe, it was because of this program."
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