Schools
Two Christina School District Schools Earn 2025-26 Sapphire Award for Excellence in School Counseling
Brader Elementary and Marshall Elementary have been honored with the 2025-26 Sapphire Award for Excellence in School Counseling.
Brader Elementary School and Thurgood Marshall Elementary School have been honored with the 2025-26 Sapphire Award for Excellence in School Counseling. This distinguished recognition celebrates school counseling programs that not only provide individual student support, but also build school-wide systems to improve academic outcomes, raise graduation rates and boost attendance.
Assistant Superintendent Norm Kennedy expressed pride in the schools’ achievements, stating, “Our commitment to putting students first guides every decision we make. Receiving the Sapphire Award underscores our dedication to fostering environments where comprehensive counseling supports and empowers students to thrive academically and personally.”
- Brader Elementary - Counselor Alexis Ridgeway used disaggregated data to uncover discipline disparities among male special education students. By implementing restorative practices, behavior support plans, and targeted counseling, the school was able to see a 17% decrease in suspensions and improved classroom engagement.
- Thurgood Marshall Elementary - Counselors Martina Fontana-Daguerre and Jessica DiRienzo introduced “Fixed Freddie” and “Growth Gretchen” lessons to teach students about growth mindsets. Following the lessons, 96% of students said they believed they could improve in areas they once struggled with, which is a critical step in building academic resilience.
Student Services and Whole Child Support Director Dr. Gina Moody added, “We are incredibly proud of the counselors at Brader and Thurgood Marshall. They are setting a powerful example of how targeted support can transform student success and well-being.”
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As recipients of the Sapphire Award, Brader and Thurgood Marshall Elementary Schools have joined Sara Pyle Academy, which earned the award last year, and have set a high standard for school counseling excellence, serving as models for other schools striving to enhance student support and achievement.
The Christina School District congratulates both schools on this achievement and looks forward to continuing its mission of providing outstanding support for students throughout the district.
