Benton Reflects On Success of 'Kindness Week'

Wilmington schools and other communities around the state had a message to send. It was received loud and clear. 

Superintendent of Schools Joanne Benton reflected on Wednesday’s No Name Calling Day, which Wilmington school officials included in their weeklong Kindness Week.

“Principals coming together to plan this week have made it possible for us to send a united message to our community that we want our schools to be safe,” said Benton. “A sustainable, positive school climate fosters youth development and learning necessary for a productive, contributing and satisfying life.” 

Benton said the highlight of the week for her was seeing a student at West Intermediate School receive an American Flag from a Tewksbury soldier as a thank you for the letters she wrote to him.

Also this week, representatives from .

Though the week is over, Benton said it’s critical to continue the message of anti-bullying throughout the school year.

“I always think it is a good idea to remind everyone of the type of vigilance we need to exhibit every day to ensure that our students are free from the dangers and distractions of bullying,” said Benton, who said it was inspiring to see all the schools in the district work as one for the week. “When people work together, a group process emerges that is bigger than any one person’s actions.”