CRMS Students Reminded to “Be You! Be Kind” During “Building Better People” Day
Click here to access a photo gallery of the activity.
The images were impactful from a distance. Hundreds of colorful sticky notes adhered to equally colorful lockers throughout Chestnut Ridge Middle School on Friday, January 24, 2020. But getting a close-view of those notes was even more powerful, as messages of kindness, encouragement and inclusion personally greeted and welcomed each of the 629 students in the school. The event was organized by the CRMS “Be You Club” as part of the celebration of “Building Better People” Day and as the culmination of “No Name Calling Week” in the school.
The notes, accompanied by smiles, laughter and hugs as the students navigated the hallways, were far more than adornments and literally small reminders of the power of positivity.
‘I think the kids really had fun this morning as we threw kindness like confetti,” said CRMS principal Jim Barnes, who credited school counselor Jaclyn Vernon for her efforts in organizing the activity. “We want to build better people. We want to encourage random acts of kindness.”
The notes not only brightened the hallways, they brightened the spirits of the students and staff.
Some of the words of inspiration that were left behind included: “You make a difference. You are amazing.” “Smiles instead of Sadness.” “You make my day brighter.” “You rock!”
Chestnut Ridge Middle School sixth-grader Sophia Frampton gives some thought to a note of encouragement that she left on a classmate’s locker.
CRMS sixth-grader Joey Van Meter attaches his note to a locker.
Classmates Justina Lee (lefgt0 and Jocelyn Gorski display their notes that they crafted to brighten their classmates’ and teachers’ day.
Special Education teacher Carolyn Johns encourages a student to “Believe in Yourself.”
CRMS principal Jim Barnes wears his sticky note from special education teacher Jennifer Rauch like a badge of honor.