Capturing Kids' Hearts is a philosophy and program focused on building strong, positive relationships between school staff and the community they serve to foster a supportive and engaging learning environment. 

Each month, our school community highlights a core character trait—such as kindness, responsibility, perseverance, empathy, or honesty—to support the development of strong social-emotional skills in our scholars. To keep the trait meaningful and present in daily life, we recognize students in a variety of ways, including:

• Daily Principal Messages over the PA to reinforce the monthly focus
• Classroom shout-outs from teachers and peers
• Monthly Awards assemblies to celebrate student role models.
• “Caught Being a Charger” recognition slips are given to students who go above and beyond in demonstrating the trait.

Baker Elementary offers students the opportunity to participate in programs such as the Algebra Readiness Club, Math Field Day, RIF (Reading is Fundamental), VAPA (Visual and Performing Arts), Windtree Education Robotics, Home Field Advantage, Cultural Bytes, Intervention Programs, Extended Learning Opportunities Program, El Monte Parks and Recreation, and THINK Together.

PBIS stands for Positive Behavior Intervention Supports. It is a means to intentionally teach students school-wide and classroom expectations so that all students can learn how to:

• Identify and reflect on their own behaviors and emotions 
• Communicate their needs effectively and respectfully with adults and each other 
• Problem solve effectively 

At Baker Elementary, we strive to foster a positive and inclusive school climate where students feel supported, encouraged, and celebrated. As part of our PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) program, we recognize and reward students for making safe, respectful, and responsible choices—the foundation of our Charger Code.

Throughout the year, students have many opportunities to earn recognition both individually and as a class:

Daily & Weekly Raffles

Each classroom participates in daily and weekly raffles where students can win small prizes such as:
Stickers and school supplies

• Charger tokens
• Positive notes or certificates
• Classroom rewards like “choose your seat,” “bring a stuffed animal,” or “free draw time.”

Schoolwide Incentives & Celebrations

To honor positive behavior and consistent effort, we host exciting schoolwide celebrations throughout the year. These events not only motivate students but also strengthen our sense of school community. Some favorites include:

• Dance-a-thon – A high-energy celebration of movement and teamwork
• Color Run – A fun outdoor run filled with color, joy, and school spirit
• Glow Party – A neon-lit event where students shine bright for their positive choices
• Menchie's Frozen Yogurt Party – A sweet reward for classrooms who meet PBIS goals
• Extended Recess – Bonus playtime for students showing consistent Charger behavior
• Sports with Staff – Scholars get to challenge staff members in fun games like basketball, kickball, or soccer.
• Free Dress Day – A “No Uniform Day” pass earned by students who meet specific behavior goals or classwide challenges.

Baker Elementary and the local community benefit significantly from their cooperation and commitment to one another.

Parents and community members are encouraged to participate in organized activities such as fundraising, tutoring, aiding at special events, and chaperoning, to name a few.

Students are recognized for a variety of achievements throughout the year.  Monthly and Trimester award assemblies are held to recognize students from each class with Charger Language Arts, Charger Math Certificates, Outstanding Effort Certificates, Charger Citizen Certificates, Outstanding Attendance, Accelerated Reading Certificates, and Home Reading Certificates.

The purpose of this report is to give you an inside look at what Baker is and does while we are entrusted with your children. By providing extensive parent education opportunities, the school hopes to encourage parental involvement in the educational process.