A New Wave of Kindness

When a new Kindness Club was announced at Pullman Elementary School (PES) this year, something remarkable happened. More than 50 students signed up, eager to join. The huge number of responses shows that students are more than ready to spread kindness.

Kindness Clubs focus on creating a positive school climate and building students’ character. One of the first activities the club tackled was creating a motto that would inspire the school community to join them in their kindness initiatives. 

“The [PES] Kindness Club practices being kind and helpful. We believe we can make the world a better place by being kind and respectful. Spread kindness and love!” - PES Kindness Club Motto.

“I am thrilled that we’ve started a Kindness Club at PES,” said club advisor Traci Newhouse. “I am proud of the motto our students created and of the kindness being displayed throughout our school every day.”

Unlike a sports team or academic club, the primary barrier to entry is simply a willingness to be kind. This inclusivity ensures that every child, regardless of their academic or athletic ability, can feel like they truly belong.

“We read books about kindness and learn ways we can be kinder to others,” said third-grader Katie Johnson.

Kindness Clubs give students concrete, actionable ideas to build kindness into their daily lives.

“I learned that even a simple smile can brighten others’ days,” said third-grader Violet Frits.

“We always start our meeting by coloring a thank you card,” said second-grader Eliza Johnson. “Today, we are coloring thank you cards for veterans.”

Kindness Clubs are more than just an after-school activity. A child who feels safe, supported and connected is a child who is ready to learn. By participating in these clubs, students are doing more than learning to be kind to one another today; they are growing into compassionate, engaged citizens for tomorrow.