Acts of kindness lead to national award

Summerland elementary students received an extra dose of motivation, Monday, during their weekly 8 a.m. meeting.

Elementary guidance counselor Denise Meyer announced the school was the $5,000 national winner of The Kindness Games, hosted by Values in Action.

Last year, the school finished third.

This year, the community submitted 2,952 acts of kindness witnessed by students, staff and community members. A year ago, 414 acts were recorded.

Meyer said the goal is simple: bring awareness to any act of kindness going on around you.

The contest began in February and concluded in April. More than 31,000 acts of kindness were entered by individuals across the nation.

On Monday, Meyer asked students who reported at least one kind act to be posted to the contest to raise their hands. Nearly every student's arm shot upward, many cheering and clapping.

Meyer shared recognition the school received from the contest sponsor.

"Summerland's results were outstanding, and it is clear that your students and staff continued to build on the kindness culture you have already created," organization officials said.

"It's nice to quote to be included," Meyer said.

The fifth grade won the class challenge. They posted the most acts of kindness.

"The fifth graders do a great job of coming together as a class, as a team to brainstorm, write down, and do acts together," Meyer said.

A portion of the prize money was used to celebrate the win. A variety of inflatables were set up in the gym and each class was able to spend time playing in the bounce houses, obstacle course, and mini-golf.

Later in the day, Dusty's of Orchard, visited the school and supplied ice cream for all elementary students and staff.

"The remainder will be used to promote kindness next school year," Meyer said.