We ❤️ School Communities!

“I’ve been searching for ways to heal myself, and I’ve found that kindness is the best way.” ~ Lady Gaga

The best of humanity continues to uplift our spirits and inspire our greater efforts to serve, lead, and collaborate with love and greatest intention.

Again and again, school communities powerfully demonstrate devotion to their students and gratitude for the professionals who are the heartbeat of every school. A quick tour around the Commonwealth:

1. In Mashpee, Mashpee Public Schools Superintendent Patricia DeBoer and her team kick-off week two of virtual community building through Spirit Week. From crazy socks to Tropical Tuesday to the “Letter M” Day, Mashpee demonstrates the extraordinary pride they feel as #WeAreMashpee with creativity, humor, and love. Add to that, a partnership with the Mashpee First Responders for story hour! On Saturday, Sgt. Assad read "The Little Fire Engine" by Lois Lenski from a Mashpee Fire truck; and on Sunday K-9 Officer Derochea read "Charlie Goes To School" by Diane deGroat. Mashpee's town leadership is all-in for their students!

2. Inspired by her best friend in Vermont, Heather Letteney of Medfield launched a fundraiser in appreciation of Medfield Public Schools 19 custodians, for their tireless efforts to sanitize every classroom and school gathering place. In no time at all, she raised $9,290! In response, a moving message from the daughter of one of the custodial staff, “Your fundraiser is so amazing. Thank you for doing this. I’m literally in tears. My dad is the head custodian at one of the schools and is immune deficient and that requires him to get monthly infusions for a functioning immune system. Yet, he loves his job so much and never lets his XLA hold him back. This pandemic unknown has been a bit unsettling, but my dad is still working hard as always. This act of kindness showing people supporting one another is so heartwarming and amazing. Thank you for being greatness in the world."

3. Everyone loves a parade! In Burlington, a police-led convoy of educator-driven cars formeds a parade with purpose! Last week, every member of the team at Pine Glen Elementary School decorated their cars with balloons and brightly decorated signs reading: “We Miss You!” and “Stay Positive” for a parade of student support. Educator Kathy Horton reflected, “I love this idea and miss the kids -- as they would say ‘wicked’. ...I can’t wait to see them and wave at them and blow kisses to them!”

As the parade wound through Burlington streets, Burlington Public Schools students and families cheered. On front steps, driveways and front yards, handmade signs returned the gratitude and love. You can view the parade here in the second story:https://www.boston25news.com/…/…/LCDKPQCYXRCMNCMMDUNWMBVHWA/

In the days and weeks ahead, our schools without walls and virtual communities of caring will provide essential enrichment, joyful connection, and a whole new roster of everyday heroes for children (and adults!) to admire and appreciate.

We kick off this week’s “Good News” in tribute to them!