Kindness Week was recently observed on the Escalon High School campus, adopted by the ASB, Associated Student Body, class. While the tradition was lost somewhat during the COVID era, this year it was back in full force.
“It is always tied into the week of Valentine’s Day, and before our February Break,” said ASB Advisor Katie Carbajal. “It’s a week that offers small activities and celebrations on campus to remind us how important kindness is, and how a small act of kindness really can change someone’s day.”
This year the ASB offered a ‘Thank You Note Station’ that was set up during lunchtime, where students could write thank you notes to anyone of their choosing.
“Most students chose to write to teachers or friends, and a large group of students chose previous teachers at El Portal and the Elementary level that made a difference in their life through kindness,” Carbajal explained. “Those teachers were surprised and excited to receive those letters.”
ASB also sold friendship grams, which were stuffed animal keychains with a note attached, and the GSA Club sold handmade friendship bracelets that could be personalized, and both were delivered to students in class during the week.
“Something new we did this year was crown a Kindness King and Queen from the EHS staff,” added Carbajal. “Students voted for a staff member that they felt really embodied kindness and positivity on the EHS campus.”
The winners were Seth Davis, an EMT/Fire Science teacher and Barbara Rivera, Spanish teacher.
“They were honored with a crown and sash to wear throughout the week, a gift of their choosing from our new student store, and students gave shout outs during Cougar TV,” Carbajal said.
Also, like other Spirit Weeks hosted periodically at the school during the year, there were dress up days and hall decorations up all week, related to Kindness Week and Valentine’s Day.
Carbajal noted that the events went well and students seemed to enjoy the various activities, as well as having the chance to spread some kindness throughout the campus.
