Students recognized for ?putting first things first?

Students at Washington Elementary School are learning about the Seven Habits of Highly Effective Kids.

In November, the school focused on Habit 3: Put First Things First.

To Put First Things First means: ?I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.?

Each Washington school teacher nominated one student, who exemplified Habit 3, from her classroom for recognition at a recent assembly.

Julie Gleason said Nolan Bonar is a hard worker in her kindergarten classroom. He continues to keep working on his assignments no matter how long it takes for him to get finished. She is glad Nolan is in her classroom this year to be a good example for other children.

Nicole Spalla recognized kindergartner Ben Boatright. Ben is a wonderful example to his peers for being a hard worker. Ben knows it is important to do work first, then have fun. Ben always puts his learning first before engaging in fun activities with peers. He stays focused on learning at all times. Spalla never has to worry about Ben finishing his work and is very proud of him.

Shawna Applegate said first-grader Max Weaton is someone who puts first things first. He makes sure to finish his work before he plays or goes to recess. He is diligent about handing in his homework and he is a self-motivated worker. Max knows the difference between work time and play time. Applegate can count on him to be disciplined and ready to work.

Jaime Reifsteck said Adrian Scotton is a hard-working first-grader. He always does what he is asked to do and finishes his work without having to be reminded.  He even remembers to read at night before he plays when he gets home from school.  Adrian is an excellent example of working hard and then getting to play hard.

Shelley Carter said Mallory Lyon is a second-grade student who puts first things first. She sets a good example for her peers by diligently completing classwork and always completing her homework on time. Mallory carefully follows directions and is always willing to help her classmates. Mallory knows the value of ?work first, then play.?

Brianna Thornton said second-grader Eric Ritz is a great example of putting first things first. He is always making sure to finish all of his tasks before choosing to do something of his own. He will put extra time in to a project so he can get more learning out of it. He always has his homework turned in on time so she knows he does his school work before playing after school. Eric is a hard worker in and outside of school.

Mindy Hoskins said third-grader Skylar Halley is a great example of Habit 3. He is focused during class, puts forth his best effort on all assignments and participates in class discussions. Hoskins can count on Skylar to have his homework completed and returned in a timely manner. He works well with his peers helping them stay on task during partner and group work. Skylar understands the value of ?work first, then play.?

Lani Smith said third-grader Samara McLain is a perfect example of Habit 3. ?She is always working hard in my classroom. Even when she was ill and had to miss a lot of school, she got caught up in no time. She even came in early one day,? said Smith. Smith knows Samara really understands how important it is to work first and then play.

Julie Hanshaw said Michael Holt is a model fourth- grade student for ?putting first things first.? Michael consistently hands in his homework on time and works on a task until it is complete. He comes to class prepared each day to do his work. He knows his responsibilities and always finishes his assignments. His excellent leadership in the class and positive attitude toward school is noticed and appreciated by his teachers and his classmates.

Heather Buckley selected Drew Martin from her fourth-grade class. Drew does an excellent job in class staying on task and prioritizing his work. His great effort on assignments and his time on task is impressive each day. Drew is able to work independently and as a group leader. He sets a great example of ?work first, then play.?