At Tinora Elementary, we believe that leadership starts early, and that sometimes, the best way to celebrate it is over a slice of pepperoni pizza.
This past month, Mr. Tipton, our elementary principal, hosted a special "Pizza with the Principal" luncheon to honor our September Students of the Month. The character trait of the month was positivity, and each of these students was recognized for bringing happiness, good energy, and kindness into our school every day.
As first grader Vaela Vallejo put it, “It’s super, super fun and special. It’s fun hanging out with Mr. Tipton!”
A Special Tradition
Now in its second year, “Pizza with the Principal” is a tradition that gives early 5s through 4th grade students a chance to be celebrated for making good choices and being positive role models.
“It started last year as a way to go a little deeper with our Student of the Month program,” said Mr. Tipton. “We wanted to give students something extra to work toward, something meaningful.”
More Than Just Pizza
Mr. Tipton, who’s been at the helm of Tinora Elementary since fall of 2021, is well-known among students for his daily dad jokes, cheerful demeanor, and the way he always seems to know everyone’s name.
“He smiles a lot,” said one second grader. “He gives you a pencil on your birthday!” added another.
Even Jackson Trinh, a 4th grader who doesn’t like pizza, said he wouldn’t miss the lunch. “It is so special to have lunch with Mr. Tipton,” he shared.
When asked about the experience, kindergartener Alexis Meyer summed it up simply: “Yeah, it’s fun to have lunch with the principal.”
Standing Out for the Right Reasons
Each student selected for September's recognition stood out in unique ways, by being trustworthy, kind, and full of good energy.
Mr. Tipton shared the bigger picture behind the initiative:
"We want kids to stand out because they’re kind, polite, positive, not for the wrong reasons. That’s how we help raise leaders."
At Tinora Elementary, character counts. And celebrating students for who they are, not just what they do, helps build a school culture where everyone feels accepted, appreciated, and valued.
4.5 Stars out of 5 - State Report Card
Thanks to the dedication of our students, families, and staff, Tinora was proudly recognized as a 4.5-Star School (Exceeds state standards in academic achievement) this year. It’s a testament to the spirit of our community, one where children thrive both academically and emotionally.
“I could not be prouder,” said Mr. Tipton. “We have great kids, great families, and an outstanding staff that goes above and beyond.”
💚 Community Support Behind the Scenes
Our commitment to students doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Programs like Shop with a Cop, Backpack Buddies, and Clothes for Kids, along with community partners like United Way, help meet basic needs and create a foundation where kids can succeed.
Whether it's a birthday pencil, a quiet compliment, or a slice of pizza at a table with their principal, the little things matter here.
As Bella O’Mary, who turned 9 during the lunch, would likely agree, every moment counts when you feel seen and celebrated.
