Note: This post incorporates information from the submitted champion award nomination, with additions and edits for clarity and flow.
Tina Cole is a 2026 WeTHRIVE! champion!
“Receiving the WeTHRIVE!℠ award was surprising and empowering. I am humbled that I received this award, yet so proud of my school community and the opportunity to help my community grow, especially with mental health.” –Tina Cole
As the school counselor at Three Rivers Elementary School, Tina is committed to the health, well-being, and success of every student and family. She fosters a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment where all students feel valued and connected.
Tina is known for consistently going above and beyond in her role. Her level of dedication sets her apart from others. Tina attends nearly every school event, but doesn’t see it as an obligation. Rather, she has a genuine passion for building relationships and supporting her school community.
Empowering students
One of Tina’s most notable efforts is her leadership of the Builders Club. Under her guidance, students participate in meaningful service projects, such as organizing food drives and collecting items to support local families in need. These efforts not only provide critical resources to the community, but also instill empathy, responsibility, and a sense of purpose in students at a young age.
In addition, Tina consistently creates opportunities that promote positive behavior, character development, and social-emotional well-being. Through initiatives like PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports), she fosters a culture of kindness, respect, and accountability throughout the school. The result is a more positive school climate where students feel motivated, recognized, and supported.
Supporting students and families
Tina works behind the scenes to ensure families have access to food, emotional support, and other necessary services. She often steps in to meet needs before they become barriers to a child’s success. Her proactive and compassionate approach has strengthened trust between the school and families. This makes Three Rivers Elementary a place where people feel comfortable seeking support.
In Tina, students know they have a trusted adult to turn to. Staff know they have a dependable teammate. And families know they have an advocate. The result of her contributions is a stronger, healthier, and more unified school community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
As the person who nominated Tina for this award said, “Simply put, Tina Cole is the heart of Three Rivers Elementary.” Her passion, work ethic, and genuine care for others make her an outstanding WeTHRIVE! champion.
It’s WeTHRIVE! champions week! Be sure to check back tomorrow for another post about one of our 2026 WeTHRIVE! champions.