Motivation, success, and feeling valued are what drives all stakeholders in the school setting. As an Assistant Principal, I work very hard celebrating and recognizing the outstanding things that our school community accomplishes, both inside and out of our building. Creating, building, or sustaining a positive school culture doesn't happen by accident. It takes intentionality on my part so self-reflection is critical. This year, I have made it my mission to reflect daily through journal writing. I also acknowledge teachers weekly by writing personal notes of appreciation. Teacher and staff surveys are sent out each school year in order to gather feedback in multiple areas including how I can improve. I lead our faculty and staff in our school safety initiative, ensuring that our staff is prepared in emergency situations. This year we have also focused on the social/emotional needs of our students. With the help of our school counselors, we continue to focus on self-regulation strategies like growth mindset, creating better nutrition habits, engaging in physical exercise, and participating in emotional-intelligence activities that help students identify their moment-to-moment emotional states and establish ways to safely manage feelings. Also, according to John Hattie's research, family involvement in school improves student achievement. Knowing this, I would strive to offer many opportunities for parents to be involved in their child's education. The Bear Fair, Holidays Around the World, Math Challenge, Bingo Night, Grandparent's Breakfast, and Open House/Book Fair are just a few examples of things we offer to keep our parents involved at BSE! We love to celebrate our teachers and students. We recognize improved educator and student performance through "You Rock" Awards, Teacher of the Year Award, Lexia certificates, #FaceLiftFriday, and Teacher Leadership awards. Finally, we recognize students through "Positive Office Referrals" in which we also call the parent to celebrate.