Justiss Elementary School has launched a new Student of the Month program designed to recognize students who demonstrate strong character and help make their campus a brighter place through their actions and the way they treat others.

The new recognition ties into Justiss Elementary’s theme for the school year, “We Create the Light.” Each month, one student will be selected for demonstrating the school’s Core Essentials Character Value of the Month and serving as an example of an outstanding Wildcat citizen.

Students in kindergarten through fourth grade may be nominated by any Justiss staff member. Rather than focusing solely on academics, behavior, or awards, the recognition celebrates students who stand out through their character, choices, kindness, and positive impact on others. Principals and counselors review the nominations and select one student to receive the monthly honor.

For September, the character value was Friendship, and Justiss Elementary proudly selected kindergarten student Katie Calabria as its first Student of the Month.

Katie was nominated for the genuine kindness, compassion, and friendship she consistently shows to others.

“I could describe multiple examples of how Katie has demonstrated the value of friendship, but one moment that stands out to me was at the beginning of the school year when I witnessed her consoling another student who was upset,” said Mrs. Vasquez. “She took their hand and reassured them in the sweetest, kindest tone. It was such a genuine display of compassion and friendship.”

Mrs. Vasquez said Katie continues to demonstrate those same qualities in the way she interacts with her classmates and friends.

“Katie is the definition of a true friend—she cares for her friends, shows up for her friends, and loves her friends wholeheartedly,” Vasquez said. “She has such a special way of making others feel cared for and supported. Katie is truly a one-of-a-kind friend!”

Katie was recognized during the school’s Rise-Up Assembly, and her picture will be displayed on the Justiss Elementary Student of the Month banner.

Through the new program, Justiss Elementary hopes to celebrate students who demonstrate that creating light does not always come through big accomplishments—it can be found in everyday acts of kindness, compassion, encouragement, and friendship.