This year, Jefferson Elementary School in Appleton Area School District of Wisconsin has taken an exciting step in strengthening its school community through the universal implementation of Sources of Strength. Across all K – 5 classrooms, students are learning what it means to belong and how to recognize and use their strengths to support both themselves and others. Universal implementation has created consistent, school-wide Social Emotional Learning that every student experiences.
A central focus of the implementation has been helping students understand that resilience, connection, and self-care are daily practices, not one-time lessons. Early signs show that this consistent, relational approach is making a difference. According to the school’s Panorama data, students’ sense of belonging increased from 51% in Spring 2025 to 59% in Fall 2025, reflecting the growing culture of support and Strength throughout the building.
Each lesson is co-facilitated by the school counselor, Rebecca Jacobson, and the classroom teachers. This further reinforces that Sources of Strength is not a stand-alone curriculum, it becomes an integral part of the school culture. Teachers continue using the shared language and strategies throughout the day, helping students apply what they learn in real moments of collaboration, conflict resolution, and personal development.
Jacobson has noticed students confidently identifying their Strengths, recognizing Strengths in peers, and using a shared vocabulary to express their needs at school. With Sources of Strength woven into every grade level, Jefferson Elementary is nurturing a daily culture of hope, belonging, empowerment, and Strength.
A Wickedly Wonderful Twist
The school community has also embraced a uniquely joyful addition this year: a Wicked-themed celebration of Sources of Strength, Sources For Good. Jacobson printed all the themed campaign posters, which brighten hallways and classrooms throughout the building. In Jacobson’s office, the Wicked soundtrack has set the tone for creative “glam time,” as students craft Oz-inspired Sources of Strength posters together.
During these crafting sessions, Jacobson and her students intentionally acknowledge the strengths the activity brings to life: connection with Positive Friends and Mentors, joyful and Healthy Activities, creativity, and meaningful quality time together. The project has not only been fun, it has also become another way for students to experience and reflect on their Strengths!
Jefferson Elementary continues to grow a community filled with hope, belonging, Strength, connection, and a little extra Wicked-inspired sparkle. The school remains committed to fostering a place where every student feels a deep sense of belonging and community every day. 💚
