The Cornerstone School’s educational philosophy clearly states that a safe and happy learning community is the "cornerstone" of a high-quality education where social and academic experiences are inextricably linked to prepare students to attain success and be purposeful members of society.” With this philosophy in mind, The Cornerstone School implemented the Tribes Program (Gibbs) in 2006.
The Tribes Program is a process that builds a community of learners, a caring culture, and a responsive education that is both learner and student-centered. The Tribes Program is used in all grades, from Preschool through Eighth Grade. It further promotes the growth of positive interpersonal relationships that create a pattern of interaction that builds on the four Tribes Agreements: Mutual Respect, Attentive Listening, Appreciations/No Put-downs, and the Right to Pass. These agreements guide our students daily, helping to encourage inclusion and build community, in both the classroom and within the school, providing valuable school-wide connections among students and opportunities to foster long-term relationships. Tribe agreements ensure consistent implementation of behavioral expectations and promote positive interaction among adults and students. It is a process rather than an end.
Together, everyone participates in creating a healthy school environment. Caring for, and being valued by others, participation, positive expectations, and support are all necessary components of the Tribe's process that promote human growth and learning. All students and faculty members are placed into one of six Tribes where Upper School students are Tribe leaders who help guide the Early Childhood students, building lasting relationships along the way.
Each week students gather by Tribe to hear school announcements, participate in activities or competitions, recognize achievements, and perform community service activities.
The Tribes Philanthropy Challenge takes place every Fall on the Cornerstone Day of Giving. Each Tribe is challenged to raise as much as they can for the Possibilities Fund (the Cornerstone Annual Fund), which helps to support classroom technology, and several school programs such as Athletics, Art, Music, and STEM.
Tribes Field Day is an end-of-year tradition at The Cornerstone School. During this Tribe vs. Tribe competition, students team up and partake in challenges such as cup stacking, hurdling, sack races, and shaving cream high-fives. The Tribe who completes the most challenges emerges victorious. It's an action-packed day brimming with excitement!