By Marie Kennedy The Mountain Times
During the week of February 10, Welches Schools embraced the spirit of kindness with interactive games, activities, and lessons designed to promote compassion and positivity among students. Dubbed Kindness Week, the event encouraged students to engage in small acts of kindness while having fun and building a stronger sense of community. A few days of inclement weather moved the timing of some of the events into the following week, but the activities came off without a hitch.
One of the highlights was the “I in KIND” Photo Shoot, where students had the opportunity to take pictures in front of a special bulletin board, creatively positioning themselves as the “I” in the word “KIND.”
Leadership instructor Julie Carrier said, “We realized that the bulletin boards were too high on the wall for the students to be an effective “i” on the backdrop, so we used a ladder. As it turned out, they loved the idea of climbing the step ladder to have their pictures taken. Not sure what we’ll do next year, as really, this just worked!”
Another feature of the week was the Wheel of Kindness, set up during middle school lunch. Students took turns spinning the wheel, which landed on various questions or challenges related to kindness. No matter where the wheel stopped, everyone was a winner, receiving small prizes. Some of the suggestions on the wheel were to “Compliment a teacher.” “Define kindness,” “What is one way that you help out at home?” “Tell us one way you can be kinder at school.”
Middle school Leadership students played a key role in spreading kindness through Candy Grams. The notes were paired with a sweet treat. Students took the opportunity to send uplifting messages to friends, classmates, and teachers, reminding everyone of the power of a kind word.
Reyna Pfenning played Cupid, along with her Candy Gram workers, Riley Carrier and Elizabeth Rose. The team was organized as they moved from classroom to classroom, handing out the notes and treats to students. As they moved through the halls, happy students greeted Cupid, exchanging high-fives.
Welches Schools’ Kindness Week was more than just a series of activities — it was a reminder that kindness is a choice we can make every day. Whether through a simple shout-out, a thoughtful note, or a moment of inclusion, students were encouraged to carry the lessons of the week beyond the classroom and into their everyday lives.
As the school community reflects on the success of the event, one thing is clear — kindness is contagious, and at Welches Schools, it’s here to stay.