Living and learning at Shades Cahaba Elementary School has been a wonderful and challenging journey! We know the power of any program is through common language. When all speak the same phrases, true understanding occurs. We developed the Shades Cahaba Way, standards by which we live and learn daily. The first five are typical school rules; the sixth is unique: Have fun, life is a gift! These statements impact our learning as well as the social and disciplinary interactions in the school.

The SCW, a 2004 Promising Practice, is the foundation. Many efforts, occurring at school, home and community have developed. After receiving the NSOC award for the first time in 2006, community service emerged as a strong component of our program. As the SCW became a way of life, it seemed time to turn our efforts outward into the community, resulting in 2,700 service hours last year.

Our journey continues to be intentional to not only teach our children’s minds but their hearts and souls. It is our responsibility as educators to help our children understand “right living.” While it is wonderful to receive the NSOC award, the real reward is how we live and learn together. It is truly a journey, not a destination. Quite a wonderful ride!

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