I’d like to talk about social capital and how it affects our students. The text (Orlich) stressed the importance of social capital in schools. Social capital encompasses all the human interactions that take place within the school community. I believe that this concept really enhances the education of children. It teaches them proper social behavior and provides students with support and encouragement. But sometimes what occurs in schools isn’t enough. I recently read an article in the Fargo Forum titled “Students learn to mind their manners” (May 31, 2009). The article is available at: http://www.inforum.com/event/article/id/242359/ With the addition of teaching etiquette to students, Fargo and West Fargo teachers are addressing an issue rarely talked about anymore. I remember learning about etiquette from my mother and then from a Girl Scout leader. We learned how to properly set a table and table manners. The Fargo teachers are taking it step further in introducing phone etiquette, politeness, the concept of opening doors for others and in-person social skills. With many students spending so much of their time interacting with video games and MTV where there is a “...MTV- inspired, anything goes culture” it is no wonder that students no longer practice or even know what proper etiquette involves.

The Fargo teachers at first complained about the addition to their workload in teaching the new unit in addition to the character programs they were already running. However, the efforts have proved worthwhile. One student commented that she felt more appreciated because her classmates were now in the habit of opening doors for each other. With the increase in texting that students do, a lot of verbal skills have also been lost. This program also addresses how to make small talk, definitely a lost art.

How does this tie into social capital? If “the school is an especially critical source of social capital ... provid[ing] the physical and social framework for teachers, students, and parents/caregivers to work toward a common good...” I believe we need to address this skill in school. Manners address all kinds of unwritten rules for children that many have not learned at home for various reasons. Perhaps their parents were never taught proper etiquette. I recently purchased a book on etiquette for the Library and students read it like it is Greek. They are so surprised about how they should act in different situations. The book has been a great eye-opener for them.

I say, “Good for You, Fargo teachers” for addressing a new need that will make our students better people.

For more tips on etiquette please consult this site: http://www.mannersinternational.com/etiquette_tips.asp