The Weekly Update Panther Pride

Message from the Principal and Assistant Principal

Dear Hillcrest and Pine Avenue Families,Students are working on advanced writing and vocabulary development, strengthening their ability to express ideas clearly and confidently. In reading, many students have already increased their reading levels by seven months, and teachers are continuing to support comprehension, fluency, and stamina. In math, students are engaging with grade‑level standards at a deeper level, applying strategies, solving multi‑step problems, and explaining their thinking.

Attendance continues to play a critical role in student success. When students are present and engaged each day, they make steady progress and build the consistency needed for strong academic growth. Thank you for helping your child arrive on time and ready to learn.

Students in grades three, four, and five will also begin preparing for the upcoming M‑STEP assessment. Teachers will guide students through practice activities that build confidence, familiarity with the test format, and the skills needed to show what they know.

We are proud of the effort students are putting into their learning and grateful for your continued partnership as we finish the year strong.

Your partner in education,

Dr. Konowalow and Ms. Jaeck

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:

1. Demonstrates Positive Behavior (Following our ROARS)

Respect: Treating peers, teachers, and staff with kindness and respect.
Responsibility: Taking ownership of their actions, completing assignments on time, and following school rules.
Safety: Taking care of oneself and others as well as reporting concerns to adults
Citizenship: Contributing to the school community, participating in activities, and setting a positive example.

2. Academic Achievement

Consistent performance in completing assignments.
Active participation in class discussions or activities.
Improvement in grades or work habits.

3. Exhibits a Growth Mindset and GRIT

Willingness to learn from mistakes and try new strategies.
Positive attitude toward learning, even when faced with difficulties.
Seeking help when needed and showing perseverance.

4. Positive Peer Relationships

Works well with others in group settings and cooperates during activities.
Demonstrates leadership skills, such as helping others stay on task or resolving conflicts peacefully.
Treats all peers with dignity, and avoids bullying or exclusionary behavior.

5. Attendance and Punctuality

Consistent attendance with few or no tardies.
Showing up on time and being prepared for class.
Transitioning activities within the daily schedule and/or within the classroom in a timely manner

Addison

Ashlee

AJ

Alec

Blair

Carter

Charlie

Colton

Eleanor

Isabel

Hudson

Ivy

Jase

Ivey

Kinsley

Kohen

Jordynn

Layla

Liliana

Judge

Luke

Luna

Kate

Magdalena

Mason

Kennedy

Mialee

Samara

Lana

Scarlett

William

Maycee

Odin

Oliviana

Roman

Skyler

Vada

Virginia

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.