PrinciPAL Program Builds Stronger Connections at ALES

At Abraham Lincoln Elementary School (ALES), students who show personal or academic growth each month are rewarded in a unique and heartfelt way: by sharing a special lunch with their principal.

The PrinciPAL program, part of the school’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) rewards system, honors one student from each homeroom every month. Whether it’s improving in math, making better choices, or becoming more independent, the recognition is based on what each teacher sees as meaningful growth in the student. 

“It’s a very simple reward, but the students really look forward to it,” shared ALES Principal Tina Nesbitt. “It certainly pushes them to keep growing.”

Recipients of the PrinciPAL award are invited to have lunch outside the cafeteria in the school’s “Park Area,” where a table is thoughtfully set for the occasion. Nesbitt joins a group of 4 to 8 students, depending on the lunch period, creating a space for quality time and genuine connection.

The tradition of lunch with the principal goes back to multiple ALES principals, and has built positive community over the years. 

For Nesbitt, the program is about more than just rewarding hard work. It’s about building relationships.

“It really improves that relationship building between the students and the principal,” she said. “It’s a great time for conversations about whatever the students want to talk about. Sometimes we talk about what they are going to do on the weekend, or any trips they have planned. Sometimes we chat about their pets, and a new little brother or sister that has just come along. I really enjoy taking the time to spend with the students and learn more about their interests and personal lives. Rarely do we chat about math or reading!”

With nearly 475 students at ALES, the PrinciPAL program gives Nesbitt the chance to connect with students she may not otherwise get to know. For the students, it’s a moment to be seen and celebrated, one lunch at a time.