"Even in tight financial times, I would find ways to fund Manners of the Heart, because teaching character is vital to our school's culture and mission."
Mr. Mark Commanducci, Principal, Children's Charter School
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In Homes:
- Lack of parental involvement
- Increasing divorce rate
- Rebellious children
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In Schools:
- Violence and bullying
- Increasing drop-out rate
- Dishonesty and lack of work ethic
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In Communities:
- Poor customer service
- Increasing criminal behavior
- Addiction to prescription drugs
- Lack of business ethics and accountability
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In Homes:
for others. We are combating these problems by educating the hearts of children, families, and community members. We teach that
- Self-respect must replace self-esteem
- A child's heart must be unlocked before they can open their minds
- What we give to the world is more important than what the world gives us
- Imagination is born in the heart, not in the mind
- Love and care is shown by serving others
- It is more important to be good than to do good
- Manners are not rules, rather they are an attitude of the heart that is self-giving, not self-serving.
- "Manners" are used as the tool for application in all of our teachings.
It is our vision to provide the next generation with not only head knowledge to lead, but also heart knowledge to lead in the right direction. Our heart education serves children and adults through the form of school curricula, teacher workshops, parenting books, parenting seminars and conferences, student leadership trainings, corporate trainings, volunteerism and sponsorship opportunities. We also promote our programs and teachings nationally through our website, radio and television interviews, radio short features, and distributing e-newsletters and articles.
Manners of the Heart is based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Its Founder and Executive Director is Jill Rigby Garner, a nationally recognized author, speaker, family advocate and parenting expert. Schools, homes, churches, businesses and community organizations across the United States and Canada are implementing the Manners of the Heart program. The names of specific sites can be obtained from the MOH office. Testimonies from parents, teachers, business professionals, elementary children and high school students confirm that our programs are transforming lives in the way we intend. Schools using our programs also report a significant rise in academic achievement and a decrease in disciplinary issues.
The Manners of the Heart Elementary Curriculum is currently under revision and will be expanded to include activities and experiences for children fifth through twelfth grade.