Craig Scott, inspirational speaker and Columbine survivor, recently visited Lyndonville Central School District to spread the importance of valuing yourself and others and spreading kindness whenever possible. The speaker held three age and content appropriate assemblies and two training sessions for select students and staff.
Inspired by his sister, Rachel, Craig discussed the importance of kindness. His message in each assembly was that people will never know how far a little kindness can go. By being kind to others, you may start a chain reaction and others will be kind too.
The message to our tenth through twelfth grade students incorporated kindness with setting goals, valuing self/others and making the world a better place as they graduate and begin their journey into adulthood. Our sixth through ninth grade students discussed respect and kindness to self and others and being aware of actions and words, especially online. They were encouraged to find ways to have a positive impact. The message to our elementary students focused on instilling kindness and compassion, and they discussed bullying and being brave enough to do the right thing, even when it is difficult.
Craig encouraged all students to do five things regularly:
1. Use kind words and do kind things
2. Accept and include others
3. Choose positive influences
4. Set goals
5. Keep a journal
Students who volunteered to be part of a leadership group called Friends of Rachel, developed seven projects to continue and sustain kindness throughout the district. In the next few weeks, these projects will unite students and show how each of us matters and contributes to making the world a better place.
“Craig Scott did an outstanding job connecting with each age group of students and provided insightful training for our staff,” said Interim Superintendent Sharon Smith. “It is the hope that Lyndonville’s chain of kindness will grow and continue to promote a positive school culture and climate for years to come.”
