Alma Schrader programs win two character awards

Two programs at Alma Schrader Elementary School -- Tigers Across the Ages and Courtyard Crashers -- have gained notice from Character Education Partnership as Promising Practices.

The partnership group is a national advocate and leader for the character education movement.

Alma Schrader counselor Julia Unnerstall started Tigers Across the Ages five or six years ago. Each fall, students and teachers work with Central High School football coach Nathan Norman to set up correspondence between students and football players or coaches.

In turn, players write back and come to the campus once during the fall to present a motivational talk. Unnerstall follows up in each classroom, emphasizing the importance of making the grade, goal setting and students' futures.

Before state testing, Southeast Missouri State University athletic director Mark Alnutt brought student athletes and new football coach Tom Matukewicz to encourage students, Unnerstall said.

Unnerstall's Character Council members deliver the letters to Central High, along with pregame meals.

"It's hugely important for us not [to] be our own little island, but to continue reaching out to our high school and our university here in town," she said. "That keeps it alive in our students that they are working toward" their short- and long-term goals.

Begun about two years ago, Courtyard Crashers is where students, parents, community groups and churches work on various projects in the school's courtyard, which also serves as an outdoor classroom.

"We had several days ... in the past two years where families have come in and donated time," Orr said. "The idea is that you work with your child to develop the child. It's kind of win-win."

rcampbell@semissourian.com

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