Local author finds inspiration in a 1914 report card to help children build character

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas woman has written book that has now being used in a pilot program in Kansas school districts.

Barbara Unell found inspiration for Uncle Dan's Report Card when she was going through her uncle's things after he had passed away.  She found an old report card from 1914.

It featured grades for the standard subjects like reading, writing and arithmetic.  But it was what was on the right column that caught her attention.  It was a "Home Report" with marks for subjects like "books read," "care of teeth," and "manners."

Unell realized these were standards children were held to in those days.  Standards, she said, that build strength of character through healthy habits and values.

With the help of her husband, Bob, Unell wrote this book, hoping to inspire others, both schools and parents, to see the importance of home life and the lessons that reach beyond the classroom.