Kindness set in stone

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Every student from Yacolt Primary has painted a rock with a message of kindness and positivity to make up a “River of Kindness” through the school’s courtyard. The project “Kindness Rocks” is just one part of the school-wide kindness and positivity initiative launched this year.

The brightly colored rocks are first painted with a base coat by the students in leadership, sacrificing some of their own lunchtime to be sure that each student’s message would stand out.

“Being a student leader means being a good example for the younger students, and even our brothers and sisters,” said fourth-grader Maddie Kaski in a district news release. 

Since the start of the initiative last month, the school has seen an average of two fewer behavior referrals per school day compared to last year. 



“Our school expectations are to be safe, respectful, and responsible,” said fourth-grade leader Aiden Gunderson in the release. “We’re working to add ‘be kind,’ and we want every student in the school to know these expectations by heart.”

With the help of 33 fourth graders in the leadership program, Yacolt Primary has not only started the “Kindness Rocks Program” but as also created 100 “Acts of Kindness” posters. These posters hang in each classroom for teachers to fill with acts of kindness that students have done for others. Once the posters are completed they are hung in the hallway for everyone to see. 

“As a school counselor, one of my biggest goals is to help create a culture of kindness,” said Nathan Simons, Yacolt’s school counselor, in the release. “Research shows that creating a positive school culture reduces bullying, aggression, and disruptive classroom behaviors, and we’re already seeing results.”

 Battle Ground Public Schools chose to hire councilors last year to provide emotional support for its youngest students. Simmons discovered his inspiration to become a school counselor after working with students at his previous job who had been diagnosed with mental health issues. “Working closely with students facing mental health and behavioral challenges, I saw firsthand how school counselors can have a tremendous impact in helping individuals by implementing systemic, school-wide measures,” Simons said.