Key to maintaining an environment where professional development opportunities are embraced is the practice of intentionally strengthening the resiliency of all staff members. Every staff member has multiple opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the school learning community. Teachers know that risktaking is encouraged and that they are in an environment that supports them in all they do. This climate of trust and support is conveyed to the children and manifested in the school s positive environment. Many schoolwide activities are held every year, including a multicultural festival and a literacy fair that involve all students, staff, parents, and the community.
Social competence is valued as an important learning outcome for students.
Starting in kindergarten, and continuing throughout their education at Cherry Valley, students learn to solve problems peacefully and positively. This is modeled through staff interactions. Commitment to professional development is shown through the variety of activities the staff is involved in at any one time. This variety of opportunities for professional development serve to engage all members of the school community in learning each year. They can help all stakeholders develop a keen understanding of the roles each plays, they can maximize resources that otherwise might not have been used, and most importantly, such relationships can enhance education for children.