The Weekly Update Panther Pride

Dear Hillcrest and Pine Avenue Families,

Courage is a foundational skill we are intentionally developing in our students as part of our Social-Emotional Learning. We define courage as choosing what is helpful, right, and kind—even when it feels hard or scary. While courage is often thought of as something required in big, dramatic moments, for children, it is most often demonstrated in small, everyday decisions. It is the student who raises their hand when they are unsure, includes a classmate who may feel left out, admits a mistake, or stands up for what is right when others may not. These moments matter, and they are where character is built.

Developing courage is essential to both academic and personal success. In the classroom, learning requires risk-taking. Students must be willing to try, to struggle, and sometimes to fail before they succeed. Without courage, students may avoid challenges, shut down when work becomes difficult, or hesitate to engage fully in their learning. When students build courage, they are more likely to persevere through difficult tasks, ask questions, and take ownership of their growth. This leads to deeper understanding, stronger problem-solving skills, and increased confidence over time.

Courage also plays a critical role in building positive relationships and making responsible choices. Children face social situations every day that require them to act with integrity—whether that means being honest, showing kindness, or resisting negative peer pressure. Courage gives students the strength to follow through on what they know is right, even when it is uncomfortable. This not only supports a safe and respectful school environment but also helps students develop empathy, trust, and a strong sense of self.

As educators, we are committed to creating an environment where students feel safe taking these risks and growing. We model courage, explicitly teach it, and recognize it when we see it in action. However, this work is most powerful when it is reinforced at home. Families play a critical role in helping children understand that courage is not about being fearless, but about taking positive action despite fear or uncertainty.

You can support your child’s development of courage by encouraging them to try new or challenging things and by praising their effort rather than just the outcome. When your child makes a mistake, help them see it as part of the learning process rather than something to avoid. Open conversations about doing the right thing, even when it is difficult, can also strengthen this skill. Most importantly, children learn courage by watching the adults around them. When they see us demonstrate honesty, kindness, and perseverance, they begin to understand what courage looks like in real life.

By working together, we can help our students build the courage they need to navigate challenges, make positive choices, and grow into confident, compassionate individuals who are prepared for both school and life.

We want to extend a huge thank‑you to the Alma Elementary Parent Teacher Organization (AEPTO) for the incredible support they continue to provide to our students, teachers, and school community. Their dedication and generosity make a meaningful difference in the daily experiences of our Panthers.

AEPTO sponsors all student field trips, ensuring every child has access to enriching learning opportunities beyond the classroom. They also provide ongoing support for CMU STEM experiences, teacher classroom supplies, and our PBIS classroom stores, helping us create engaging, well‑resourced learning environments.

One of the most important ways families support this work is through the AEPTO Fun Run, our only annual fundraiser. The Fun Run plays a critical role in funding field trips, classroom support, PBIS incentives, family events, and enrichment opportunities for students across Luce, Pine, and Hillcrest. Every donation—large or small—directly benefits our kids.

Last night, on March 25, AEPTO hosted a free Family Carnival, and the turnout was extraordinary—over 375 families attended. The energy, joy, and sense of community were felt throughout the entire event. We are so grateful for the time, planning, and heart that went into creating such a memorable evening for our families.

We deeply appreciate everything AEPTO does to strengthen our school community. Their partnership truly helps our students thrive.

Courage Grade 1

Courage Grade 2

Courage Grade 3

Courage Grade 4

Courage 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: