Capturing Kids' Hearts

Hamshire-Fannett ISD utilize the socio-emotional learning techniques and classroom facilitation tools developed by Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH). These are designed to peak student interest, establish collaborative agreements of behavior in every classroom, create high performing groups, increase pro-social skills, create more time on-task, and increase student performance.

Classrooms utilize a collaboratively developed social contract that outlines how people agree to treat each other within the classroom. Each day begins with students having an opportunity to share good things going on in their lives, school, or community. Teachers communicate in a way to establish connections with students and build relevant connections to the content they teach, as well as end class periods with a powerful and positive closure for the day or class period.

Hamshire-Fannett Elementary, Intermediate, and Middle School have been recognized as Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase Schools. This honor is awarded to schools that exemplify a strong culture of relational leadership, student connectedness, and a safe, supportive learning environment.

Hamshire-Fannett Middle School has achieved this recognition for three consecutive school years: 2022–2023, 2023–2024, and 2024–2025. This ongoing distinction reflects the campus’s consistent dedication to fostering meaningful relationships, promoting student engagement, and creating a positive school climate.

As a district, Hamshire-Fannett ISD celebrates the shared commitment of its students, staff, and leadership to building strong connections and nurturing a culture where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed.

The Flippen Group recognizes and celebrates campuses that go the extra mile each day, building an environment where students and staff feel safe and connected. Capturing Kids’ Hearts campuses are considered for these awards based on the following criteria:

1. Nomination based on observation
2. Level of implementation of Capturing Kids’ Hearts processes by all staff as measured by online surveys
3. Data demonstrating that Capturing Kids’ Hearts has made a significant improvement in attendance, student management, climate/culture, or academics

A Flippen Group team visited each campus to gather additional quantitative and qualitative data, and to interview students, teachers, administrators, and parents. They used a matrix of key measurements to gather information during the campus walk-through. Finally, an additional survey was conducted to collect feedback regarding the perceived climate and culture of the campus and its conduciveness to learning.

We applaud these campuses for setting the standard at a national level and achieving such a prestigious award.