TLA Character Virtues: Starting the school year focused on kindness and respect

With the start of a new school year at The Lincoln Academy comes a renewed sense of focus and purpose. Each September, we return not just to classrooms and hallways, but to a community grounded in shared values and a commitment to excellence. This year, we begin by highlighting TLA character virtues that are both practical and impactful: kindness and respect.

Why These Virtues Matter

Kindness and respect are more than polite gestures. They are deliberate choices to treat others with care, empathy, and patience. At TLA, we believe these virtues are the foundation upon which scholars grow into thoughtful leaders and responsible citizens. When kindness and respect are present, trust is built and collaboration is strengthened - contributing to a positive learning environment.

Schools that intentionally cultivate kindness and respect see results. Scholars feel safe, included, and supported. Staff are able to work more effectively together. Families know their children are learning not only academics, but also habits of character that will serve them throughout their lives.

Our Virtues in Action

September’s focus on kindness and respect is not confined to classroom lessons. They are visible every day.

Scholars reflect these virtues in their peer interactions, whether assisting each other in class or offering encouragement during activities. For them, kindness means respecting classmates, offering help, and being mindful of how words and actions affect others. Respect reinforces kindness by reminding scholars that every individual has value and deserves consideration-whether in group work, in the lunchroom, or on the playground.

Teachers model it by demonstrating patience and compassion in the classroom. Staff share it daily through warm greetings and a willingness to help where needed. Kindness is reflected in the way they support one another and guide scholars with consistency and care, while respect ensures that diverse perspectives and professional contributions are valued.

For families, kindness often serves as the bridge that connects home and school in a meaningful way, and respect deepens that connection by fostering trust, open communication, and mutual understanding.

These moments may seem small, but together they shape a culture where respect, kindness, and responsibility thrive. Our staff prepared for this school year diligently over the summer, welcomed new colleagues to the team, and continuously engaged with community partners to advance our mission. Their professionalism and care demonstrate that kindness is not just an idea; it is integrated into how we work and how we serve. Over time, these virtues continue to become a part of our identity as a school community.

Our Commitment

As we continue with the school year, we encourage every member of our community—scholars, families, staff, and partners alike—to treat kindness and respect as daily responsibilities. Consider: How can I contribute to a positive environment today? How can I support someone else? How can I approach challenges with patience and perspective?

When these questions guide our actions, our school culture grows stronger and our mission remains clear.

The year ahead will bring both achievements and challenges. Through it all, kindness and respect will help us keep children first, strengthen our community, and maintain determination while finding joy in the process. We acknowledge the efforts of educators, staff, scholars, families, and community partners who together make The Lincoln Academy is more than just a school. It is a place for learning, growth, and shared commitment to values that matter.

Let us carry kindness and respect with us every day, so it solidifies as a powerful force that prepares our scholars not only for academic success, but also for purposeful, responsible, choice-filled lives.