RIPLEY — Ripley Central School Board of Education members at their meeting on September 17, learned that the Instructional Leadership Team has introduced “Brag Tags” as a new way to celebrate student achievements.

Ripley Principal Sara Centanni and Director of Curriculum and Pupil Services Michelle Waters gave a combined report which spoke of the initiative introduced by the ILT explaining that the students will earn a “Brag Tag” when they accomplish a predetermined goal. “These tags will be added to a chain, which can be proudly displayed on lockers or outside of classrooms,” Centanni said. “The goal of this program is to continue to recognize and celebrate student accomplishments.”

The report also stated the team proposed a work plan for the 2025-26 school year. “I am pleased to report that the staff enthusiastically embraced the changes and the new format,” Waters said. “All professional development throughout the year will be directly aligned with these goals to ensure a cohesive and focused approach to instruction.”

District Superintendent William Caldwell said he is very impressed with the Instructional Leadership Team. “It’s got our teachers ready for school and it has been very well received,” he said.

Waters also told the board that during the month of September, a dedicated group of teachers took the initiative to plan and lead professional development based on the book “Tiny Humans, Big Emotions.” “The content of the book directly complements our existing Capturing Kids’ Hearts framework, providing our staff with new tools to help students navigate their emotions and build positive relationships,” she said.

Centanni also reported that the students have successfully completed a bus drill on Sept. 8 and four fire drills. In a related matter, she noted that the Maintenance/buildings & Grounds Department have received new fire extinguishers.

Centanni told the board the beginning of school went very well. “There were lots of smiles and we’re getting into a routine,” she said. She noted that Meet the Teacher night was successful and well attended. Also, the PreK3 Meet the Teacher day, which was held on the first day of school was successful as well.

Board members were reminded that Literacy Night and a Book Fair will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Oct. 8 and the Fall Fest will be on Oct. 9.