Blendon Middle School implemented a new PRIDE awards program, aimed at recognizing students and staff who demonstrate core values of being Positive and Respectful, demonstrating Integrity, and of being Determined and Engaged. Since this is not an academic-based program, every student is eligible to be nominated and recognized.
Congratulations to the first PRIDE Program student awardees Nonnie Anonyuo and Courtney Blair, and the first staff recipient, Amy Levine. Anonyuo was nominated for assisting her teacher, Tori Cook, with cleaning up the science lab without being asked. Blair was nominated by her teacher, Erica Beekman, for helping peers in her Social Studies class during a special activity. Band teacher Amy Levine was recognized for nominating a student for displaying PRIDE characteristics.
The girls received a $15 Chipotle gift card for their efforts, and Levine received a VIP Pass donated by the African Safari Wildlife Park.
Students are nominated by staff members when they are observed demonstrating PRIDE characteristics. A random drawing is then held monthly from those nominations (and nominators). Prizes are donated by local and national companies as well as Blendon PTO members. The PRIDE program replaces the previous “Caught Being Good” program at Blendon Middle School.