What is a Touchstone..?  

As we expanded our character development mission to reach students, staff and families in even more inspiring ways, we set out to develop a school "touchstone."  A touchstone refers to a promise or pledge to strive toward high standards of words and actions in, and out of, school.  Incorporating our Key values, our Mill Pond Touchstone took a year to create and involved the input of students from all three grades along with adults.  We proudly hold it as our gold standard of character, and we recite it on Monday mornings to remind ourselves to be guided by it.  You will notice that it ends with our school motto:  

Learning and Caring...It's what we do here!

Our Keys to Success program is the framework we use for teaching and practicing essential concepts of social-emotional learning.  We spotlight monthly values that are fundamental in building strong, positive character and skills for life!  Principal's letters, morning messages, and activities to foster the awareness and practice of skills connected to these essential Keys are some of the ways the Keys to Success are celebrated each month.

Respect - September

Treating yourself, others, materials and the environment in a considerate, valued manner.

This is the application of the Golden Rule:  “Treat others the way you want to be treated.”

Empathy - October

Trying to understand and be sensitive to another’s feelings or ideas; trying to see things from another’s perspective.

Kindness - November

Observing and recognizing the needs of others and acting in a way to meet those needs; 

treating others the way you want to be treated.

Generosity - December

Giving or sharing in abundance without expecting anything in return.

Acceptance - January

Recognizing the uniqueness and value of each individual and embracing differences in our diverse society.

Integrity - February

Being honest with oneself and others at all times.  Doing the right thing even when no one is watching.

Resilience - March

Not giving up with whatever one has set out to do; persisting; bouncing back when you experience challenges.

Responsibility - April 

Being accountable for your words and actions, exercising self-control, and having a sense of duty to complete tasks.

Courage - May

Being brave in trying tasks that are new or difficult, and choosing to do what is right, fair or just. 

Gratitude - June

Being thankful and showing appreciation; being ready to return kindness.

“You must be the change you wish to see in the world."  - Mahatma Ghandi