Oakland Elementary School is proud to join over 21 million students across 43,000 schools in 115 countries in participating in the Great Kindness Challenge. What began 14 years ago with just three schools in California has blossomed into a worldwide movement to create a culture of kindness in schools, homes, and communities. Now, Oakland is part of this incredible kindness uprising, and we couldn’t be more excited to make KINDNESS the norm in our school!
The Great Kindness Challenge is more than just a week of fun activities; it’s a mission to build a positive school climate, reduce bullying, and encourage everyday acts of kindness. During the week of January 27-31, Oakland embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and heart.
To kick off the week, Oakland’s student council created a warm and welcoming atmosphere by greeting students at arrival with colorful banners, inspiring posters, spirited pom-poms, and bright smiles. Joining the celebration were Oakley, the school’s beloved mascot, and several administrators, all eager to set the tone for a week full of positivity and connection.
In addition to the warm welcome, Oakland held a kindness-themed spirit week with fun dress-up days that remind students to think about kindness in creative ways. These activities reinforce the idea that small acts of kindness can have a big impact, inspiring everyone in the Oakland community to contribute to a culture of respect and compassion.
At Oakland Elementary School, we believe that kindness is contagious, and our participation in the Great Kindness Challenge reflects our commitment to making kindness a daily habit. Together, we’re working to create a school where everyone feels valued, supported, and inspired to share kindness with others.
Thank you to our students, staff, and families for embracing the Great Kindness Challenge and showing the power of kindness in action! Let’s continue to spread kindness far beyond this week—it’s a movement that starts with us, but has the potential to change the world.
