What many of us remember about middle school may not be a direct correlation to growing love. We recall the rollercoaster ride of changes, the fickle world of popularity, and daily fluctuation in figuring out what really matters. All immersed in the study of reading, writing and arithmetic.
It is encouraging to witness in schools across the country, kindness becoming part of “the curriculum” – whether by a single teacher’s insight and creativity, or in structured programs at the school. Take Cullowhee Valley School in N.C. At this K-8 school, periodic “kindness and caring” awards are given and celebrated to students nominated by teachers for exhibiting those traits; plus mandatory guidance classes facilitate productive conversation and conflict resolution in a safe environment- one that kids feel comfortable returning to if more help if needed. Way to grow love Cullowhee Valley School!
Recently in Williamsburg Va, Hornsby Middle School dedicated a week to focus on Kindness. Kudos to school administration and staff for not only supporting the week’s events with their time and resources, but also for creating an environment that encouraged student ideas.
Highlights of the week:
Acts of Random Kindness Day: Awesome Grams available “to let someone know they are special to you.” There was also an abundance of “high fives” throughout the hallways that made the point too!
Stand for Kindness day: Students were encouraged to wear boots (or something close) to show that they stand up for being kind to others.
Put a Lid on It Day: Wearing a hat showed you stood for “putting a lid on unkind words.” Following the adage, “If you don’t have anything nice to say don’t say it at all.” Aka, “put a lid on it.”
Purple Out: Students wore their school colors to show their pride in being a Hornsby Hawk! It was in this context that two students shared the message of “Spread the Word to End the Word!” (more to follow!)
Gold and Blue Day: Students were encouraged to wear these colors for Autism Awareness.
The concluding announcements celebrated with the kids, “We are truly a kind school!” Thanks Hornsby Hawks, for growing love!
the grow love project 