Staff and students at JFK Middle School in the Comsewogue School District recently celebrated their Week of Gratitude to kick off the holiday season by spreading positivity and kindness through their hallways. The spirit of gratitude will become the spirit of giving as the school is hosting several collections this month to support their community.
“Throughout Gratitude Week, we hosted several activities and special programs to remind each of us that there is much to be grateful for. By reflecting on our gratitude, we can brighten each other’s days and create a ripple effect of kindness in our community,” said JFK Middle School Principal Amanda Prinz.
Gratitude Week began with World Kindness Day, during which students and staff kicked off the week's events by wearing red to represent the iconic sweatshirt worn by television host Mr. Rogers, who will be forever remembered for his commitment to teaching his audience about spreading kindness. Staff and students put sticky notes with positive messages on students’ lockers, giving them a reason to smile when starting their day. During another activity, students made gratitude lists to highlight their friendships, passions and everything that brings joy to their lives.
Following Gratitude Week, students and staff will create a wall mural depicting a cup of hot chocolate full of marshmallows. Students will write a point of gratitude on each marshmallow to decorate their school with a symbol of warmth, appreciation and community.
The school will continue the spirit of gratitude throughout December by hosting several programs to support those in need, including collecting gifts from staff and families for donation. The school created a holiday display full of toy penguins and, under each, is an anonymous student’s age, interests and clothing sizes. Staff and visitors can pick a penguin to correspond with a gift they will donate.
All month, the JFK Middle School Art Honor Society is collecting art supplies to donate to children in local hospitals. The Student Council is collecting toys for local children as part of Jackson's Toy Drive fundraiser, and Comsewogue C.A.R.E.S. is collecting children’s books for the District’s Pre-K program.
App users: Visit this page to view pictures from Gratitude Week.