More than 250 Altus teachers, administrators, support personnel, and parents attended an afternoon presentation by Gene Bedley, Executive Director, of the National Character Education Center, Santa Margarita, California. The in-service program, hosted by Altus Public Schools and sponsored by APOE, dealt with character-centered classrooms. Bedley’s materials are currently being used in over 5500 schools nationwide.

“Our desire,” says Bedley, “is to help children and young people define character–to help them identify their individual gifts they have to give to their community, beginning with home and neighborhood service projects.”

Carol Steen, Altus Staff Development Coordinator, agreed Bedley’s message is important for all ages. “The same principles are relevant not only to elementary students but are also adaptable to the secondary student.”

Fourth-grade teacher, Mary Kruska, candidate for national certification, stopped by the books and materials table after the program. “I’m so glad I came,” Kruska said. “I already use many of the principles Mr. Bedley mentioned, but he has given me many more ideas and has helped me organize my methods for my classroom.”

Before introducing Bedley, Ginger Tinney, APOE executive director, gave informational background on the phenomenal growth of the association during the past year.

Later, in thanking Dr. Copeland and the Staff Development Committee for allowing APOE to bring “Values in Action”, the comprehensive character education program for schools, to the Altus District, Tinney said, “It’s obvious Altus personnel exhibits such values. Everyone

was so helpful. We were graciously welcomed and are looking forward to coming back.”

– Assosiation of Professional Oklahoma Educators New