Centennial Middle School has introduced a new student recognition program designed to celebrate students who demonstrate the school's core values of Perseverance, Academics, Community, and Kindness. The initiative, developed by the school's Culture and Climate Committee, utilizes a system of rewards and personalized communication to foster a sense of belonging within the student body.
Tiered Reward System
The program, which focuses on people, actions, character, and kindness, offers multiple tiers of recognition for students throughout the school year. According to Centennial Middle School administration, the goal is to highlight the positive contributions students make to strengthen the school community.
One component of the initiative is the use of PACK Cards. Teachers and staff can award these cards to students observed demonstrating the school's core values: Perseverance, Academics, Community, and Kindness. These cards provide students with two distinct options for redemption.
Students may choose to exchange a PACK Card immediately for a small reward, such as a CMS sticker or two Tootsie Rolls or another type of candy. Alternatively, students may opt to place their card into a drawing to compete for larger prizes and special privileges.
Monthly Student Awards
In addition to immediate rewards, Centennial Middle School is implementing a monthly recognition program to honor students who make a positive difference in the school community. Teachers are tasked with nominating students who demonstrate growth, effort, kindness, and overall positive impact.
According to school officials, the Student of the Month recognition extends beyond academic achievement to focus on character and the positive influence a student has on their peers.
Selected students will receive several forms of recognition, including a certificate and a schoolwide presentation. Recipients will also receive a gift card and a cookie, which school administration identified as a Crumbl cookie.
Positive Communication with Families
To ensure positive communication reaches families, Centennial Middle School has established a goal for every student to receive at least one positive postcard during the school year. These personalized postcards are sent home by teachers to highlight specific strengths, efforts, and positive choices observed in a student.
School administration stated that these postcards are intended to share good news with parents and guardians while ensuring students know their positive contributions are noticed and appreciated.
Building School Community
The student recognition efforts are part of a broader effort by the school to build a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel they belong. The program seeks to use everyday recognition to ensure that small, positive actions are noticed by staff and peers alike.
Assistant Principal Teresa Tovar noted in a September 2026 administration message that the school has seen a positive energy with the return of students to the classrooms and hallways. The administration expressed excitement for the upcoming school year and the opportunities it provides to celebrate student achievements.
Upcoming School Events
Centennial Middle School will host SEP Conferences on Sept. 16. According to the school administration, these conferences provide an opportunity for families to connect with teachers, check on student progress, and celebrate the milestones students have already achieved at the start of the school year.
