o I resolve to learn as much as I can from my teachers, textbooks and resources.
o I resolve to pay attention in class.
o I resolve to be respectful of my teachers, even when I don't agree with them.
o I resolve to do assignments on time to the best of my ability.
o When I mess up, I resolve to learn from the mistake and go on. I will not give up on myself.
o I resolve to work hard both for the teachers I like and the ones who aren't my favorite. This is my education - not theirs.
o I resolve to encourage my classmates to do their best. No teasing, no bullying.
o I resolve to be honest about situations at school.
These goals are lofty, but they can be achieved, especially if parents set some goals, too. Here are some possibilities for parents:
o I resolve to celebrate this educational journey with my child.
o I will be kind when I ask questions about schoolwork and tests. And I will ask questions, no matter how tired I am.
o I will set guidelines for my child so he or she knows I have a plan that rewards him or her for diligence.
o I will also set guidelines for my child so he or she knows that there are consequences for slothfulness.
o I resolve to remember that my child is a child. He or she has a lot of growing and learning to do.
o Likewise, I resolve to remember that my child is not perfect ... and neither am I.
o I resolve to be respectful when addressing the other authority figures in my child's life. I will avoid verbal attacks on teachers, coaches and advisers.
o I resolve to be understanding when my child fails to meet a goal. I will challenge my child to learn something from the experience.
o My love and acceptance of my child will not be tied to his or her performance. Even on the "bad" days, I will offer a hug and an affectionate word.
o I realize that my child's success begins in my home. My involvement matters, and it is a privilege.
And here's one for a Family page columnist:
o I resolve to offer best wishes to each of you for the very best school year ever.
Lisa Tedrick Prejean writes a weekly column for The Herald-Mail's Family page.
