Salem School shows its spirit at assembly

Elementary school students at the Salem School hosted the second School Spirit Assembly on Jan. 27. The theme for this student-led assembly was "Responsibility," and each grade-level presented a song, skit, or poem to promote its safe school climate, which includes lots of responsible behaviors. One grade even filmed a commercial.

Time was also used during this assembly to honor students for their leadership and accomplishments. All students enjoyed wearing medals around their neck (gold paw print designs in honor of the Salem mascot - a cougar) and participating in song, dance and celebration of those students who received one of the Five "A" Awards.

These awards included special recognition in: Academic Achievement, Attributes/Work Habits, Attendance, Arts (Unified Arts) and Attitude/Citizenship. Students who earned these Five "A" Awards received an additional certificate and gold medal for each category.

Fifty-five parents and guests attended the School Spirit Assembly to celebrate alongside the students. Principal Cynthia Ritchie recognized all students, staff and parents and thanked them for their partnership.

She reminded them that the student-led activities featured in her Spirit Assemblies are ones that come from the heart and cannot be purchased or copied from a textbook. The audience marveled over the fourth-grade presentation, in which a fourth-grade student, Jacqueline Silveira, wrote lyrics to create a song about responsibility based on a Taylor Swift melody.

She then practiced it and taught her song to the entire fourth-grade group, who performed it for all to see. Ritchie said, "Students, even as young as elementary ones, can rise as leaders when given the opportunity. Young children can make a positive impact in the world! It is up to us to give them opportunities and avenues to share their ideas and to help them shine."

Ritchie has led the school community with a motto that she frequently refers to and displays in her office for all to see - Teamwork: We learn, grow and accomplish Together! Salem Elementary School will host two more School Spirit Assemblies this spring.

SUBMITTED BY PRINCIPAL CYNTHIA RITCHIE.