History
The Chester Service Stars program was launched in 2006 as a way to emphasize service beginning with elementary-age children. The program recognizes students for their volunteer service to others, whether it be family, friends, neighbors, animals, or even the Earth. In that year, more than 120 Chester Elementary students received recognition as Service Stars. The program was honored in its first year with the Spokane Chase Youth Commission's "Spirit of Jim Chase" Award (Youth Division).

CVSD website article about the Chase Youth Award

How it Works
Service Stars are nominated by their parents, school faculty and staff, or other adult who is aware of a selfless act of kindness that the student did. Each Service Star nominee has her/his photo placed on a large banner above the school office and receives a special certificate, awarded at the end of the school year. There is a group photo in the yearbook, and each recipient has a star next to his/her class photo. In addition, all Service Stars receive a special T-shirt and there is a special Family Fun Night held just for them.

Our Founder
The Service Stars program was started by long-time Chester mom Diane Hutchens. A dedicated and active PTA member as well as an acorn award recipient, Diane saw a need to encourage community service among younger students, and the Service Stars program was born. With the original tagline, "Kids helping others, the Earth, and critters," Diane presented her idea for the program to the Chester PTA. It quickly gained the support of Chester faculty and parents alike. Diane has moved on to PTA involvement at the middle school level, but her special legacy lives on with the Chester Service Stars.