December 2024 Bearcats of Character Recognized
The Aledo ISD Board of Trustees recognized this latest group of students named Bearcats of Character for the 2024-2025 school year on Monday, December 16, 2024 for the character trait GRATITUDE.
Gratitude, simply put, means being aware of and thankful for good things that happen. According to this year’s Aledo ISD staff convocation Keynote Speaker Anne Grady, practicing gratitude does not mean ignoring the negative or wearing rose-colored glasses, but instead it means actively seeking out the positive and intentionally looking for what is good! Practicing gratitude decreases feelings of fear and anxiety and promotes lower heart rate and blood pressure as well as better sleep and overall better mood!
Congratulations to the following students, Aledo ISD's December 2024 Bearcats of Character!
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Aledo High School: Micah Billingsley, 10th grade
Micah is the most grateful person I know! She approaches every situation with a positive outlook and never takes anything for granted. Her constant smile and upbeat attitude, whether faced with challenges or successes, truly reflect her gratitude. She consistently finds the silver lining in all circumstances, making those around her feel appreciated and uplifted.
Aledo Learning Center: Simon Bocanegra, 12th grade
Simon's math teacher, Ms. Gray, said, "Simon consistently shows heartfelt gratitude for the things done for him or given to him. His appreciation is sincere, and he never takes even the smallest gestures for granted."
Daniel Ninth Grade: Adelyn Martin, 9th grade
Adelyn consistently exhibits gratitude through her positive attitude and the joy she brings to everyone around her. She has been a source of inspiration and has helped me become a better version of myself. Her kindness and support have made a significant impact!
Aledo Middle School: Kalyn Gregg, 6th grade
Kalyn exhibits this month’s strength of Gratitude because she is consistently kind, respectful, and helpful to both her peers and teachers. She goes out of her way to show appreciation, thanking me every day at the end of class. Her positive attitude and strong work ethic make her a joy to have in class. - Social Studies Teacher - Ms. Blanton
McAnally Middle School: Hope Marra, 6th grade
Hope was selected by Ms. Posey for the character strength of gratitude. Hope is full of positivity and has a grateful heart. She says "thank you" everyday to her teachers and shows appreciation to those around her. Ms. Posey says that Hope brings a smile to her face everyday! MMS is grateful for the joy Hope brings to all of us at MMS!
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Early Childhood Academy: Gavin Escobar, Pre-Kindergarten
Ms. Hopkins shares that Gavin shows gratitude each and everyday in her classroom. He is always eager to learn, loves to help others, and is always appreciative of any help he receives. Gavin is a great friend and is always kind and respectful to his peers and teachers. He loves learning new things and Ms. Hopkins is so thankful that he is in her class this year.
Annetta Elementary School: Estela Zamorano, Kindergarten
Estela's teacher, Ms. Baum says, "Estela is always so kind and gracious to teachers and her classmates. It could be something as simple as me handing a paper to her, and her telling me thank you. She is also that way with her classmates, always thanking them for helping her when she needs it."
Coder Elementary School: Audrey Kunkel, 4th grade
Audrey consistently shows appreciation for her classmates and teachers. Audrey goes out of her way to thank others for their help and kindness, and she always expresses gratitude for the little things. Her positive attitude and thoughtfulness create a warm, welcoming environment in our classroom. I love being her teacher! Ms. Saltarelli, 4th Grade Teacher
McCall Elementary School: Everley McWilliams, 3rd grade
Third grade teacher Mrs. Blanchard says, "Everley is a joy, and one grateful student. She is such a hard worker and asks questions when she doesn't understand. THEN she takes the time to write me, her teacher, thank you notes for helping her, even though it’s my job!! She is genuine with her words and gives great thank you hugs. She also takes the time to thank her classmates when they help her. I am proud of Everley in so many ways!"
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Lynn McKinney Elementary School: Presley Thompson, 5th grade
Mrs. Butkus, her science teacher writes: Presley always brightens the classroom with her warm, appreciative attitude. Every day, she makes it a point to thank her teachers with a little note or saying things like, "Thank you for helping me understand!" Whether it’s a classmate lending her a pencil or a group project partner putting in extra effort, Presley never hesitates to acknowledge their kindness with heartfelt words or a cheerful smile. Her gratitude creates a positive atmosphere, inspiring those around her to feel valued and appreciated.
Stuard Elementary School: Stella Martin, 4th grade
Henry Ward Beecher said, “Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul.” The beauty in Stella is not only outward; it is a beauty that radiates from within. Her spirit of gratitude shines through in her interactions with everyone she encounters. She approaches life with a thankful heart and makes our classroom a better place.
Vandagriff Elementary School: Isley Pitchford, 5th Grade
Isley is an incredible, kind, and hardworking student. She shows appreciation daily to her teachers and her classmates and always makes sure to say "thank you", even for the little things. She is grateful for everything and is a wonderful example of what it looks like to show gratitude in every situation. from Mrs. Hardin, Mrs. Benavides and Ms. Mooney
Walsh Elementary School: Jack Bristow, 2nd GradeFrom Jack's homeroom teacher, Mrs. Tarvin: Jack exemplifies gratitude through his appreciation of life's simple pleasures, finding joy in moments that others might take for granted like playing outside during recess. During science STEM building activities, Jack showcases his creativity, immersing himself in the process and celebrating the little victories, whether it's constructing a new musical instrument or discovering a new technique. His understanding of humor adds an extra layer to his gratitude; he often cracks jokes with his peers and teachers, lightening the mood and fostering a sense of camaraderie. Jack’s ability to recognize and appreciate these small yet significant moments not only enriches his own experiences but also spreads positivity among our class.