Walking the halls of every high school in America certainly has a different feel these days. Many educators would say morale is down and motivation is lacking, but that hasn't stopped one Pennsylvania school from promoting kindness and encouraging students, teachers and the community to be the "I" in kind.
The multitude of brightly colored hearts reminds students that being truthful, respectful, and acting with integrity are all aspects of kindness. The school club, Communities that Care (CTC) and David Kaler, a business teacher at Halifax High School played an instrumental role in bringing the idea to life. When asked about the goal for the mural, Kaler said "Ultimately, the goal is to get everyone thinking and acting kind within the school community for the month of February." February 14 - 20, 2021 is Random Acts of Kindness Week and Halifax High School plans to continue its kindness campaign through the month of February.
The CTC club has also planned a Teacher Appreciation event that’s being called “You’ve been mugged.” Kaler explains, "Each teacher, including both faculty and staff, will get a coffee mug filled with candy and a handwritten card of thanks from students." But the kindness doesn't stop there, students will participate in a kindness spirit week, complete a random acts of kindness calendar and display kind messages throughout the halls where students can "take what they need." Needless to say, Halifax High School is spreading kindness all month long.
Despite the unprecedented times, educators across the United States are finding creative ways to spark joy and educate students. If your school district, fellow educators, or students are achieving big goals, let us know by emailing your spotlight story to april@reachandteach.rocks.