Moments of student kindness highlighted by principal

This week in the Charlotte Central School newsletter, principal Tim O’Leary wrote about the small but powerful moments of kindness, sincerity and inclusion that happen frequently at the school. When he asked staff members to share examples of kindness they have seen from their students, many examples were given, including the following:

• A first-grade student helped a friend who was stuck on an activity by giving them a clue rather than the answer. This small act of kindness allowed their classmate to experience the pride of solving the problem independently.
• A second-grade student noticed a peer who was alone during ease-in time and invited them to color together, fostering an inclusive and caring classroom environment.
• In another second-grade moment, a student showed kindness by offering a classmate an open seat at morning circle, ensuring everyone felt welcome.
• A fourth-grade student checked in on a friend who was having a tough day, showing kindness and sincerity in making sure they felt supported.
• When a fifth-grade student’s locker organizer collapsed and their belongings scattered, another student immediately stopped what they were doing and helped pick everything up – before being asked.
• A sixth-grade student has been taking time each day to check in with a classmate who struggles socially. They make sure their friend is included in group work, games and conversations, helping them feel seen and valued.
• An eighth-grade student showed incredible kindness and concern for a peer’s well-being when they took the time to speak with the school counselor and an administrator last week.

These are just a few examples of the kindness and empathy shown by students at Charlotte Central School.

School variety show

The school variety show is back on Thursday, March 27, 6:30-8 p.m., in the Multi-Purpose Room. Whether you’re a singer, dancer, comedian or have a hidden talent, you will be able to take the stage.

Positions are available for a master of ceremonies, backstage crew and adult volunteers to help make this event unforgettable. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action. It’s going to be an epic celebration of talent, creativity and community.

For all the details about registration, volunteer sign-up, audition dates, practice sessions and more.

Administrative positions posted

Tim O’Leary and Beth Slater, Charlotte Central School’s current principal and assistant principal, plan to apply for the school’s administrative positions that have been posted for hire for the 2025-26 school year and beyond.

Shortly after O’Leary and Slater stepped into their roles in January, the Champlain Valley School District leadership informed them that these positions would be posted for hire as part of the district’s standard process to ensure a full, open and thorough hiring process. O’Leary informed staff about this in advance and said that both he and Slater intend to apply.

Safe drinking water

All of Charlotte Central School’s drinking water sources used by students and staff have been tested as safe from lead. As required of every Vermont school by Act 66, the school recently had the taps tested and those labeled as “hallway drinking fountain” are all at the lowest rating.

A handful of taps — none of which are used for drinking or cooking — tested above Vermont’s action level. These taps have been labeled as non-drinking water and will be replaced with new fixtures and filters, which is standard practice in Vermont schools.

Discussions about technology use

The school community recently had a conversation about technology use and community expectations.

After several students spoke up with concern about a video posted by one of their peers on TikTok, a team of Charlotte Central School and Champlain Valley School District leaders reviewed the video and determined there was no threat to individuals or the school.

The Charlotte Central School community saw this as an opportunity to have a wider conversation about digital responsibility and how to navigate online content in ways that align with school values. These discussions help students develop awareness and confidence in making responsible choices.