District administrator's cornert

by Loren Glasbrenner,  River Valley School District Administrator  It really is pretty simple—give thanks. The River Valley School District is grateful for the continuous support and kindness given. Interestingly, for children, it is not about the amount of stuff that they have—it is about the process of recognizing and being thankful for what they have. In the Journal of School Psychology (2008), grateful children tend to be happier, more optimistic, and have better social support. They also report more satisfaction with their schools, families, communities, friends, and themselves. Being grateful creates happiness. Again in another research journal, Psychological Assessment (2011), grateful teens (ages 14 to 19) are more satisfied with their lives, use their strengths, are more engaged in their school and interests, and have better grades. Being grateful builds happiness and quite often allows developing minds to be less materialistic. By definition, gratitude is an emotional response upon receiving kindness. You can hear your parents, no matter your age, reminding you to “Say, thank you.” This quick response is procedural, but also deeply important as we model how to be responsible and grateful. Within the River Valley School District, we ask students to be responsible and respectful each and every day. And they are. The students are grateful for the schools and staff and learning (even though they won’t quite say it quite that way). As we enter the holiday season, sharing can also help students understand, practice the act of being grateful, and contribute to our community. Here is one example; the Spring Green Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting “Operation Hygiene” to gather important essential items for families in need: • Shampoo and conditioner • Deodorant • Toilet paper and paper towels • Bar soap, body wash and laundry detergent • Brushes and combs • New bath towels or socks We have drop-off buckets at each school (as well as at many local businesses.) All items will be donated back to families within our schools.  As we focus on what is good in our lives and being thankful for what we have, we cannot take for granted that we live in incredible communities, surrounded by natural beauty, amongst generous neighbors. The River Valley School District is grateful.