They already have learned about citizenship, and the importance of voting. In December they will learn about caring for others around the holidays. And in January they will learn about being trustworthy.

But in November, the theme was respect.

To emphasize that trait, Principal Williams brought in Native American speaker Swil Kanim of the Lummi Tribe. He explained how he was brought up to respect his elders and to listen to them not only with his ears, but his heart, too.

Kanim talked about how life is full of choices, and that we are a product of our mistakes, and our successes, no matter how small.

Along with being a speaker at schools and other events all over the world for all ages, Kanim also is an accomplished composer and violinist, having his songs played by the Seattle Symphony. He played a number of songs for the students.

Williams said she likes Kanim’s teaching that people need to respect themselves first, before they can respect others.

“Treat them like you care for them,” she said is a philosophy of the school.

Kanim added: “Treat them like you’re going to see them again, and they will have a desire to see you again.”

Along with respecting yourself, Kanim’s message also was about being yourself.

“People are different from me,” he said. “No one else can feel my feelings. Be true to yourself, and say my feelings are significant.”

Kanim said he often talks to himself in a positive way, giving himself a pep talk.

“What awesome listeners you are,” he told the grade school students. “You listen so respectful. It’s beautiful; warms my heart.”