As part of aUpd school-wide character building and behavior management program, Cornell Elementary will be purchasing 45 diverse and age-appropriate picture books highlighting important and desirable character traits of each individual. These picture books will be utilized to explore various character traits centered on diversity, equity, inclusion, social emotional learning, and self-awareness. This $855 grant will be utilized to help students learn and explore these valuable traits as well as gain exposure to rich and diverse literature. Students will have the opportunity to see themselves as characters, authors, and illustrators of these selected books, as well as their individual differences highlighted, and their diverse identities reflected in the chosen picture books. Students will also have opportunities to hear and share differing and unique voices and perspectives promoting equity and inclusion. Cornell Elementary is so excited to begin this work, and so grateful for the support of the Okemos Education Foundation for their help in making this project possible!