Spotlight on Pleasant Ave. Principal Cory Cotter for supporting children’s academic and social growth
Pleasant Avenue Elementary lives by the motto “Be Safe, Be Helpful, Be a S.T.A.R.,” approaching each day with enthusiasm, care, and a deep commitment to student well-being. At the heart of this supportive culture is Principal Cory Cotter, who stands at the school’s entrance every morning, ready to greet students with their choice of a fish face, pinkie hug, or heartfelt hug. This warm, intentional greeting is the first step in the school’s use of Conscious Discipline—a social-emotional learning program that helps children and adults manage emotions, build connections, and solve problems through self-awareness and safety.
“This is our first year implementing this self-regulation program, and we’ll be introducing more components throughout the year,” said Principal Cotter. “Children need to feel safe in order to be ready to learn. We’re building a school family to ensure all students feel connected. The adults’ role is to maintain a safe environment, while students help uphold that safety.”
Training for Conscious Discipline began last year, with teachers participating in professional learning sessions led by a Conscious Discipline trainer. This focus continues during monthly faculty meetings, and the Pleasant Avenue Conscious Discipline Action Team has developed a handbook with suggested activities for teachers to implement monthly.
To support the program in classrooms, students are introduced to Shubert and Sophie, beloved characters from the Conscious Discipline SEL book series, who teach children to be a S.T.A.R.: Stop, Take a deep breath, And Relax.
Throughout the building—in classrooms, hallways, and the main vestibule—walls are decorated with family photos, creating a welcoming sense of belonging and community. One of Principal Cotter’s most impactful initiatives is the launch of the Kindness Cart, which rewards students who earn “Caught Being Good” coins. The joy on students’ faces as they exchange coins for small prizes is a powerful testament to the initiative’s success.
To keep families informed and involved, Principal Cotter includes a section on Conscious Discipline in her weekly ParentSquare updates. These updates help parents better understand the program and recognize its activities during school events.
“As a district, we are incredibly proud of the work being done at Pleasant Avenue under Principal Cotter’s leadership,” said GJSD Superintendent Alicia D. Koster. “She is fostering a school environment where each staff member is valued and every child feels safe, seen, and supported—not only academically, but emotionally. As a seasoned educational leader, her passion and dedication are transforming the culture of the building in meaningful and lasting ways.”
As each week passes, Principal Cotter notes changes not only in her students but also in herself. Each morning greeting, each act of kindness, and each lesson in self-regulation reinforces her belief in the power of Conscious Discipline—a framework that is helping build a school community where every child is empowered to succeed.
