Hemlock Elementary is placing a special emphasis on character development this school year, giving students meaningful opportunities to practice positive character traits, celebrate their accomplishments, and become leaders in their classrooms and community.
Each month, students focus on a different character trait, including respect, responsibility, gratitude, empathy, perseverance, honesty, cooperation, courage, and creativity. Throughout the month, students who demonstrate the featured trait can add a strip of sunshine to the school’s “Look How We Shine!” board. When the board reaches its monthly goal, students earn a special celebration. Additional opportunities for larger schoolwide celebrations are planned throughout the year.
Celebrations include activities such as extra recess, obstacle courses, a glow party, pajama day, creative projects, and special challenges with the principal. These experiences recognize students for putting positive character traits into practice through their everyday actions and choices.
“We want students to know that the little things they do every day matter,” said Rebekah Harris, school social worker at Hemlock Elementary. “Whether it’s including someone, showing kindness, or making a good choice when something is difficult, those moments help students grow and build positive relationships with others.”
The initiative also extends beyond the classroom through a monthly Family Challenge. These simple, engaging activities encourage families to spend time together, communicate, laugh, and grow while practicing the same social and emotional skills emphasized at school.
Leadership is another important part of the school’s efforts. Each month, teachers select one student from their classroom as a “Leader of the Pack.” Students are recognized for demonstrating the monthly character trait and showing leadership through the way they treat others, make decisions, solve problems, and contribute to their school community.
Through these efforts, Hemlock Elementary is creating consistent opportunities to recognize positive choices, strengthen relationships, and reinforce the importance of character. By celebrating the everyday actions that make a difference, the school is helping students recognize that leadership begins with how they treat others and the choices they make each day.