Posted Date: 11/13/2024
Around 500 United ISD students poured into the Bill Johnson Student Activity Center on Wednesday morning to celebrate World Kindness Day, uniting to spread messages of positivity and inclusivity. The event, which was initiated by the J.B. Alexander High School (AHS) Superintendent's Student Advisory Council, was designed to promote anti-bullying efforts and foster a sense of community and kindness across the district. The idea for the event originated earlier this school year when the AHS Student Advisory Council was tasked with developing districtwide projects focusing on bullying prevention and school safety. “They initially wanted to create the link with students at their own school but we decided to take it a step forward and really drive the message home by expanding this project, including students from all of our schools, elementary to high school.” emphasized Associate Superintendent of District Administration and Student Services, Rebecca Coss Morales. “By coming together, we’re demonstrating how kindness can connect us all, no matter our age or grade level.” Each participating student wore red and filled out a pink “link of love,” writing personalized messages to promote kindness, unity and anti-bullying. Messages included heartfelt phrases such as, “Being kind comes from the heart,” “Together we can spread love,” and “Don’t say hurtful things.” All of the individual messages were interlocked together to create one giant, colorful chain symbolizing the collective power of kindness. AHS Superintendent’s Student Advisory council holding up the kindness links. “I think it was amazing having everyone here from United, Alexander, LBJ, United South, but also the middle schoolers, the little kids, the ones that look up to us. We want them to start on the right foot,” AHS Junior, Regina Verboonen explained. “We feel bullying starts early and we need to help address it now.” Each student, together with UISD administration, were positioned across the field to spell out “WE ARE UNITED,” in a very powerful display. Students vowed to continue spreading positivity with small actions every day. “It really just felt like a vibrant day full of positivity. Continue spreading positivity, continue striving for your goals and remember you are enough,” added Maria Martinez, an AHS Senior. UISD Superintendent, Dr. Gerardo Cruz praised the initiative, adding, “The students are coming up with some incredible ideas, and we are proud to support them in bringing those ideas to life. This is just one example of the innovative projects they are developing, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.” World Kindness Day served as a reminder of the power of unity and positivity, and UISD students are committed to carrying this spirit of kindness with them throughout the school year and beyond. UISD Superintendent, Dr. Cruz and Administration on World Kindness Day. Link to Video: |