February 2026 Bearcats of Character Recognized
The Aledo ISD Board of Trustees recognized this latest group of students named Bearcats of Character for the 2025-2026 school year on Tuesday, February 16, 2026 for the character trait OPTIMISM.
According to the Positivity Project, optimism represents a state of hopefulness and confidence about the future (both short and long term). People with this strength are future oriented. They have a positive vision of what the future holds and maintain confidence that they will get there. They keep a positive attitude despite setbacks — and often find ways to convert what seems like an obstacle into a stepping-stone to achieve their goals.
Congratulations to the following students, Aledo ISD's February 2026 Bearcats of Character!
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Aledo High School: Leonidus Keith, 10th Grade
Leonidus is being nominated for the character strength of Optimism because he consistently uplifts those around him. His presence brings warmth, encouragement, and a positive spirit that makes others feel supported and valued.
Aledo Learning Center: Cooper Lee, 11th Grade
Cooper has shown a spirit of optimism since his first day at the Aledo Learning Center. He seems to be focused not only on the "here and now" but on his future after high school. He is intent on completing his requirements for graduation and planning for his future afterwards. He is not easily discouraged and consistently displays an attitude of hopefulness and optimism for what he future holds. He seems to understand that the development of his problem-solving skills now will benefit him in the future.
Daniel Ninth Grade: Anais Roland, 9th Grade
Anais is being nominated for the character strength of Optimism because she consistently brings a positive, cheerful attitude wherever she goes. She always looks on the bright side, uses her unique sense of humor to lift others up, and has a way of making people smile even on difficult days.
Aledo Middle School: Reagan Cox, 6th Grade (not pictured)
Reagan brings a constant sense of optimism into the choir classroom and truly makes everyone’s day brighter. She approaches learning with a positive mindset, giving her best effort in every rehearsal and viewing challenges as opportunities to grow. Her encouraging words—whether spoken to herself or to others—create an uplifting environment where classmates feel supported and valued. She takes accountability for her work, believing in her ability to improve and succeed, and she never gives up when things feel difficult. Through her dedication, perseverance, and joyful spirit, she reminds all of us that optimism and effort can make a powerful difference.
McAnally Middle School: Kade Pruitt, 8th Grade
Kade consistently demonstrates optimism through a positive attitude and determination, even when faced with significant challenges. As a student at McAnally Middle School, he remains focused on his goals and works steadily toward them, showing perseverance and resilience along the way. His ability to maintain hope and move forward in difficult situations inspires classmates and staff alike. Kade is a true example of optimism in action.
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Aledo ISD Early Childhood Academy: Lucy Cox, Pre-K
Lucy consistently looks for the positive and maintains a joyful outlook. When challenges arise, she seeks ways to improve the situation or support others who may be struggling. She is a natural helper who demonstrates optimism through her positive attitude and genuine care for those around her.
Annetta Elementary School: Cohen Fisher, 1st Grade
Cohen is a wonderful example of optimism in our classroom. He comes to school each day with a positive attitude and a big smile, ready to learn and try his best. When work feels challenging, Cohen doesn’t give up. He celebrates his own progress and cheers on his classmates, helping to create a happy and supportive environment. We are so lucky to have Cohen as a part of our class!
Coder Elementary School: Evie Keen, 5th Grade
Evie consistently brings a positive outlook to each day, approaching challenges with confidence and a belief that things will work out. Her optimism is evident in how she encourages others, stays focused on solutions, and maintains a steady, hopeful attitude even when tasks are difficult.
McCall Elementary School: Ella Davis, Kindergarten
Ella is a positive light in our classroom. She always has a smile on her face and works so hard in my classroom. She's never discouraged when things are hard and is eager to learn!
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McKinney Elementary School: Blakely Jech, 4th Grade
Blakely consistently demonstrates optimism both inside and outside school. She works hard to make her best even better and approaches learning and sports—especially softball—with a fantastic attitude. Her commitment to growth is clear: she embraces challenges, learns from mistakes, and continually seeks ways to improve. Blakely’s willingness to try new strategies and ask for feedback models a love of learning for her classmates and teammates. Keep sharing your positivity and optimism with the world, Blakely!
Stuard Elementary School: Gunnar Griffin, 4th Grade
Michael Jordan once said, "I hope the millions of people I've touched have the optimism and hard work to share their goals and hard work and persevere with a positive attitude". Gunnar's optimism can light up an entire classroom He can find light in every dark moment and turn negative situations into positive experiences. His positive outlook on life is contagious and those around him are inspired to be better by his heart.
Vandagriff Elementary School: Roselyn Booms, 2nd Grade
Rose shows a positive and optimistic attitude in class. She approaches challenges with confidence and stays hopeful even when learning feels difficult. Her optimism is a wonderful strength and encourages others.
Walsh Elementary School: Caleb Atup, 4th Grade
Caleb is always optimistic! Despite being in new or challenging situations, he greets each day with a positive attitude and a bright smile. He faces every challenge with confidence and resilience, turning obstacles into opportunities to learn.