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Iron Forge principal outlines social-emotional goals, classroom strategies
Summary
Principal CJ Alexander presented Iron Forge Elementary's three priorities — building relationships through 'Butler Cares', guiding student learning, and making school experiences enjoyable — and described specific programs such as monthly community meetings, behavior matrices, 'super weeks', and writing strategies.
CJ Alexander, principal of Iron Forge Elementary School, told the board the school's work this year has centered on three goals: expanding the school's "Butler Cares" social-emotional framework, guiding meaningful student learning, and making students' elementary years memorable and fun.
"I'm CJ Alexander," she said at the start of her presentation, and explained that relationships are the foundation of learning. Alexander described how the school uses a behavior matrix, incentives called "Cares tickets" redeemable at a school store, monthly community meetings, and interventions such as a behavior think sheet and a problem-solving model to teach self-regulation.
Alexander highlighted classroom strategies to support learning, including low-technology math games, writing exercises (an "itty bitty book" strategy), and experiential trips such as a recent visit to the Oaks Museum. She said staff development occurs monthly and that community involvement, including a PTO-sponsored "bubble thaw" event, supports a positive school culture.
The principal noted special initiatives for students with intensive learning support needs and described classroom moments — such as a student demonstration and a hands-on science activity — used to build speaking and leadership skills.
Board members thanked Alexander for the presentation and praised staff for supporting students during her first year as principal.
