At Berlin Elementary, we believe the start of the school year is more than just opening books and reviewing schedules — it’s about setting the tone for who we are as a learning community. That’s why our first eight days of school are dedicated to The First 8 Days of Leadership.
Each day, students are introduced to or reminded of one of the 7 Habits through our Leader in Me framework. These habits guide our work not only in the classroom but also in life:
Be Proactive – I’m in charge of myself.
Begin with the End in Mind – Have a plan and set goals.
Put First Things First – Work first, then play.
Think Win-Win – Everyone can win.
Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood – Listen before speaking.
Synergize – Together is better.
Sharpen the Saw – Take care of yourself.
These habits empower our students to see themselves as leaders with voice, choice, and responsibility.
During the first eight days, we spend time teaching, modeling, and practicing the expectations for every part of the school day — from the hallways to the cafeteria, from the classroom to the playground, and even on the bus ride home. Students learn what it looks like to be safe, respectful, responsible, and kind in all areas of the building. This consistency helps every child feel secure and sets a strong foundation for learning.
At Berlin School, we know that students achieve their best when they feel like they belong and matter. In these first eight days, we emphasize relationship-building:
Teachers and staff get to know their students.
Students connect through team-building and leadership activities.
Classrooms create mission statements that reflect their shared values and goals.
Our goal is for every child to walk into Berlin School knowing: “I am safe here. I am cared for here. I matter here. And I can be a leader here.”
By focusing on leadership, expectations, and belonging in these first eight days, we are preparing our students for a year of growth and success. The habits and routines we build now will carry through the year, shaping a school culture where every student shines as a leader.