The Weekly Update Panther Pride

Dear Hillcrest and Pine Avenue Families,

Cooperation is our Character Strong focus this month, and students are learning how working together makes school a better place for everyone. In peer-to-peer situations, cooperation looks like sharing materials, taking turns, listening to others’ ideas, and solving small conflicts with calm words. These everyday moments—inviting someone into a game, helping a classmate clean up, or encouraging a peer who is trying something new—build a sense of belonging and strengthen friendships across our school.

Students also practice cooperation with teachers by following directions the first time, staying engaged during lessons, and showing flexibility when routines shift. When students ask for help respectfully, take responsibility for their materials, and contribute positively to classroom expectations, they help create a safe, calm learning environment where everyone can succeed. Cooperation is a skill that grows with practice, and we’re proud of the ways our Panthers are learning to work together.

Your partner in education,

Dr. Konowalow and Ms. Jaeck

Cooperation Grade 1

Cooperation Grade 2

Cooperation Grade 3

Cooperation Grade 4

Cooperation Grade 5

Student of the Week and Month:

Earning Student of the Week or Month honors as part of a PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) school acknowledgement program can be an exciting and motivating way for students to be recognized for positive behavior. Here are the ways in which students can earn Student of the Week or Month honors:

Throughout February, our schools focused on strengthening our Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) system by celebrating the power of positive recognition. Teachers and staff intentionally noticed students who demonstrated their ROARs—Respect Others, Act Responsibly, and be Safe. This shared effort created a wave of encouragement across classrooms and hallways, reminding students that their daily choices matter and are seen.

Our goal for the month was ambitious: for every student to earn at least three Panther Paws. With more than 600 students across our buildings, this meant our school community was aiming for over 36,000 Panther Paws. Thanks to the dedication of our staff and the enthusiasm of our students, were able to celebrate what we have accomplished.

Students enjoyed special game time with our paraprofessionals, who brought energy, connection, and joy to each session. These moments of play reinforced teamwork, belonging, and the importance of making positive choices. Students also used their Panther Paws to purchase items from their classroom stores, giving them opportunities to practice responsibility and decision‑making in meaningful, age‑appropriate ways.

To keep these classroom stores stocked and engaging, teachers are always in need of small trinkets and student‑friendly items. This year, AEPTO is stepping in to help by collecting donations at the upcoming school carnival. Their support ensures that teachers have a steady supply of incentives that keep students motivated and excited about demonstrating their ROARs.

February’s PBIS success reflects the heart of our school community: we lift one another up, we notice the good, and we create environments where every child can thrive.