Patricia Nugent, principal of Miller Avenue School, recently met with fourth- and fifth-grade students to celebrate the book of the month, “An Awesome Book of Thanks!” by Dallas Clayton. Incorporating rhymes and detailed illustrations, the text encourages readers to be inspired and more conscientious.

“I felt that this selection was fitting since we just wrapped up the holiday season, which is full of giving and cheer,” said Nugent. “The story concludes with the author expressing his gratitude for new beginnings, much as we are grateful for the fresh start of a new year.”

The group discussed the school’s Pay It Forward program, which helps students develop their character education skills. Through the program, students, teachers and staff members are encouraged to commit random acts of kindness toward one another. Recipients of these good deeds are asked to write or illustrate their experiences on a designated bulletin board for all to see. At the end of the school year, the total number of kind acts will be tallied and announced.