Core Beliefs

Calvin Donaldson
Environmental Science Academy

Calvin Donaldson Environmental Science Academy (CDESA) is an academically rigorous Pre-Kindergarten through Fifth grade elementary school located in South Chattanooga, TN. Here in this urban environment we lay the foundation for fulfilling our mission.
Learning through Environmental Science integrates opportunities to enrich our curriculum and reach our student achievement goals by enhancing critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Along with all other Hamilton County Schools we seek to educate all students to their highest potential. We continue to focus on helping students succeed, enhancing staff development and increasing community support. In doing so, we are investing in the future of our neighborhood, Chattanooga and Hamilton County.


At Donaldson our Core Beliefs are:


1. We believe that every attempt should be made to maintain the dignity and respect of both the adult and the student.
2. We believe that all students can learn and have unique gifts to contribute to the community.
3. We believe that students should be given the opportunity to make decisions and live with their results, whether the consequences are good or bad.
4. We believe that misbehavior should be handled with natural consequences and logical instead of punishments whenever possible.
5. We believe that students should have the opportunity to tell their side of the story.
6. We believe that misbehavior should be viewed as an opportunity for individual problem solving and preparation for the real world.
7. We believe that, as a team, we can solve any problem.

These beliefs drive the work that we do each and every day as we engage with our students and their families.
















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