Austin Catholic Schools’ character education program was adopted in a work environment very different from pre-K through sixth-grade classrooms.

According to the curriculum’s Web site, “Fish! Philosophy” emerged in 1998 from a film about Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle, Wash.

“They just decided they needed a better work environment,” explained Jeannie Bambrick, third-grade teacher and supporter of the program.

Fish! Philosophy trickled down from businesses and into school districts nationwide, and Austin Catholic Schools adopted the curriculum three years ago after reading how Gage Elementary in Rochester had adopted the program with success.

“You’re there for other people,” Bambrick said. “You’re always looking to make others’ days brighter.”

The curriculum is based on four principles: “choose your attitude,” “make their day”, “be there” and “play,” she said. The curriculum can also be applied to the school’s faith-based education.

“It’s in simple terms kids can understand,” Bambrick said. “It really just hit home with me. It’s the way I choose to live my life.”

This year, the school used “Fish Cards,” which are awarded to students “caught” being good. The class with the most cards each week received the traveling trophy, “Pete the Perch.”

With a donation from the Knights of Columbus, artist Sandy Jones of Blooming Prairie even painted a fish-themed mural above St. Augustine’s north door in 2007.

Since the school began teaching the lessons, students have demonstrated they can use those ideals in their everyday life.

“These kids are building on it themselves,” Bambrick said.

For more information about Fish! Philosophy, visit www.charthouse.com.