Building a community with character
courtesy photo
Cherry Valley students look at photos of their peers on the Caught with Character board on the wall at the school.
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POLSON — At Cherry Valley Elementary, we are building more than just new classrooms; we are nurturing a strong, kind, and healthy community, one character trait at a time. Our district has proudly adopted a program focused on equipping students with essential skills that pave the way for their success both in school and in life. As a school community, we believe that a safe, predictable, and inclusive learning environment is the foundation for students to thrive. We strive to ensure that every child feels comfortable, included, and connected, with multiple positive adult figures outside their primary classroom teacher who can guide and support them through the challenges in their learning journey and personal growth.
Our commitment to the well-being of our students extends beyond the classroom walls. We focus on building a positive community atmosphere where every student can flourish.This goal is rooted in two key elements: individual social-emotional competence and a strong sense of community. To foster this environment, we prioritize developing meaningful relationships among students, teachers, and staff. Our educators work tirelessly to empower students with the tools they need to cultivate and sustain positive relationships, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being.
The character traits we emphasize each month are not just concepts but practical skills our students learn, practice, and internalize. Through this process, they develop empathy, build social skills, offer support to peers, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their coping mechanisms. To celebrate and reinforce these values, we regularly spotlight students who embody our vision of a positive school climate. Whether through morning announcements or the “Caught with Character” wall, these students are recognized for making our school a welcoming, safe, and uplifting environment for all.
Our character education framework is built around three major pillars: Be Kind, Be Strong, and Be Well. Each pillar encompasses a set of skills and traits designed to help students grow into purposeful, compassionate and resilient individuals.
Be Kind focuses on social skills such as listening, building friendships, resolving conflicts, and leading with empathy. Students learn to navigate these areas while practicing respect, cooperation and understanding. By mastering these skills, they strengthen the bonds within our school community and become models of compassion and inclusivity.
Be Strong emphasizes the importance of focus, organization and goal setting. These traits are taught alongside the values of responsibility, courage and perseverance. Our students learn to tackle challenges head-on, maintain their motivation and see setbacks as opportunities for growth, setting the stage for lifelong resilience.
Be Well addresses emotional regulation and stress management. Through skills like gratitude, honesty, and creativity, students learn to understand and express their emotions, cope with adversity, and appreciate the positive aspects of their lives.
As we continue to build and grow, we are excited to share the progress of our incredible students and the vibrant community they create. Together, we are building strong friendships, collaborating to solve problems, acquiring lifelong skills, and developing a generation of purposeful individuals who make a positive impact both in and out of our school.
