Hilldale Student Recognized for Good Deeds

Earlier this month, Hilldale Elementary School staff and students celebrated a “Week of Respect.”

During the week of Oct. 7, School Counselor Britany Bucci  and Principal Jill Cisneros initiated a school-wide approach to having the students understand the true meaning of Respect.

Bucci visited each class throughout the week to discuss this important topic, as well as focus on being tolerant of others, despite the many differences that individuals have, said Bucci.

Students were able to earn “good deed” tickets throughout the week if any staff member in the building caught them doing something kind and respectful for someone. Tickets earned were placed in the appropriate grade level bag and at the end of the week, one random winner was selected in each grade to win a $10 gift card to Target.

Each student in the building was given a blank star to decorate. The students were instructed to write something on their star that they could personally do to be more respectful and tolerant of others. The stars were then displayed throughout the entire school building, under a poster that read, “Hilldale Students Show Tolerance and Respect…S.T.A.R.”

These stars unified the school, because it was an activity that each child participated in, said Bucci, adding that the week’s theme days were also a big hit for the staff and students, with days such as “Being Respectful is No Sweat” (wear your favorite sweats) and “Dream Big and Show Respect” (wear your pajamas).

“Hilldale’s PTC was extremely generous and helpful in working with the staff and students for this exciting event,” said Bucci. “The topic of Respect is something that is very consistent and ongoing in the Character Education program that is offered to all K-5 students at Hilldale. The students really enjoyed celebrating this important week and are looking forward to more school-wide activities in the near future.”