Rdale Proud October 6, 2025 - Sonnesyn - Words Matter

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Words Matter Initiative at Sonnetson School

School culture, kindness, and restorative practices

Student leadership opportunities via Kindness Team

Family engagement strategies for language and inclusion

Presentation of student-led 'Kindness is the Way' song project

Areas of Interest (4)

School-wide behavior initiative moves away from punitive measures toward restorative language practices.
Sonnetson School reports 73% participation of 4th/5th graders in new Kindness leadership initiative.
Cross-departmental talent: EA Sam St. Clair leveraged graphic design background for official school branding.
Strategic family engagement: Schools are using school events like bingo and barbecues to enforce community language pledges.

Notable Quotes (3)

Our goal is to create a culture of kindness, respect, and inclusion.
— Adams

School CultureDefining the objectives of the Words Matter project.

I could have said excuse me.
— Adams

Student DevelopmentRecounting a student's self-reflection after a conflict.

We are creating community where words are used to lift others up and strengthen belonging.
— Shelinda Sherrod

InclusionConcluding remarks on the importance of language.

People (6)

StaloSuperintendent

Introduced the Words Matter presentation.

AdamsPrincipal

Discussed the schoolwide initiative to improve student language and kindness habits.

1 quote

“Rather than trying to consequence kids into positive language, what if we taught the power of their language and what if we taught them habits around language.”

Explaining the pedagogical shift in handling student conduct.

Shelinda SherrodAssistant Principal

Shared research and rationale behind restorative practices.

1 quote

“When harmful language is addressed in restorative, not punitive ways, students learn responsibility and empathy.”

Advocating for restorative justice over traditional punishment.

Kelly BetszelSocial Worker

Introduced the student Kindness Team and leadership opportunities.

1 quote

“Kindness is a way of being having a safe community. A place where we can show up authentically ourselves.”

Summarizing student feedback on the meaning of kindness.

LutzMusic Teacher

Composed the 'Kindness is the Way' song performed by students.

Sam St. ClairEducational Assistant (EA)

Designed the Words Matter logo.

Places Mentioned

Sonnetson SchoolRobbinsdale Area Schools

Events & Meetings (1)

Board meeting date not explicitly listed in text

View Source