BEE ME KIDZ GOES TO SCHOOL

Bee Me Kidz has been such a rousing success that it has now expanded into an elementary school program, creating a positive, inspiring and supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to Bee their best.

Currently in 2022, we have six Bee Me Kidz schools in Saint John and Charlotte County and are always looking to expand to help even more children to “be the best me they can bee!” Our newest addition was Milltown Elementary in September 2021.

In the school environment, the entire school is transformed with the Bee Me Kidz culture. Bee Me Kidz signage is posted outside the school. All teachers receive training in the Bee Me Kidz culture and the PATHS curriculum, focusing on social and emotional learning skills.

At Bee Me Kidz schools, students kick off each morning hearing the Daily Buzz after the Canadian National anthem on the morning announcements. The Daily Buzz is based on the Bee Me Kidz character trait that provides positive encouragement for the day.

At our six Bee Me Kidz schools, in each class, a child is chosen to be the Bee Me Kid of the Day. The Bee Me Kid of the day is the special classroom helper for their class. They receive positive compliments from their peers, their teacher and themselves that is written on a special piece of paper for them to take home and have their parents/ guardians write one. Students also learn important social and emotional skills taught by the Bee Me Kidz teacher. In this way, students receive consistent learning and encouragement that will help them succeed in their school careers and beyond.

The Bee Me Kidz school program has achieved exceptional results in reducing disruptive behaviours, increasing concentration, attention and social/emotional competence, and creating a more positive cultural environment where the kids can learn and excel. Teachers, parents and students are thrilled. Here is what Tina Estabrooks, past Principal at Centennial Elementary School in Saint John, has to say about the Bee Me Kidz program at her school:

Bee Me Kidz triangulates a relationship between children, parents and educators, and provides a common tool to support child resiliency. Centennial educators, understanding the challenges presented by life in poverty, were eager to embrace the mission and embark upon the task of enhancing our school climate and culture. – Tina Estabrooks

This year we have witnessed great gains. Students are excited and proud of being a Bee Me Kid. The educators witnessed the benefits of a program that allows each child to shine, builds self confidence and develops self awareness. As we continue…our children, without the emotional confusion created by a life of unfavourable circumstance, will be the very best they can be. This (program), I predict, will exceed all of our historic expectations. – Tina Estabrooks