Kindness Week

Submitted by david.thacker on

A new tradition was started at SFJHS this year by the student council. We celebrated the first annual Kindness Week. There has been so much going on in our world lately, and it is scary to think about what kids these days go through as they grow up. The best way to combat these types of events is to show kindness, acceptance, and love to our peers every day. We all have strengths and gifts to share, and that is what Kindness Week is all about.

On Tuesday, students wrote kindness notes and were challenged to walk up to someone, whether they knew that person or not, and give them a note. After pack time, the halls were full of smiling and laughing kids.

Wednesday was all about showing kindness to ourselves. The students created a paper chain which was full of statements about their strengths and amazing talents. It was kind of awkward at first because students didn't want to brag. But once they started, many students ended up doing way more than they were asked to. It was awesome to see kids light up as they realized they are special and unique individuals. The chain was hung up around the outside halls of the school to remind students about how special they really are.

Thursday was Compliment Day and students watched some funny videos about the importance of giving, but also receiving compliments. After that, brave students, and a few teachers, stood in front of white boards while others wrote good things about that person. When students could see what others wrote about them and see how others view them, their faces broke into grins and laughter.

Friday was the day to say thank you to those who may not always get the recognition they deserve. Classes talked about the importance of recognizing people for their hard work and showing our appreciation and gratitude. Each class made posters for the different faculty members in the school to let them know that we are grateful for their hard work every day.

We want to thank the counselors, the student council advisors, and the faculty for teaching the pack time lessons. And of course the students for their participation. Last week really was special, and we hope that a difference was made, even if it was small. One student admitted to their teacher "I just feel so good this week. I can't remember being this happy for a long time." And that's what it is all about.

Attributions
Story by Mrs. Jaimie Dannelly, Photos by SFJHS Teachers, Video by Mr. David Thacker