As students and faculty approached the middle school on Feb. 13, they were greeted with colorful lighthouses on the windows. Upon closer examination, viewers read positive and empowering messages, created by the Best Buddies Club, about why everyone is important.

This activity was only one of many of the day’s examples of how the students celebrated P.S., I Love You Day, a national movement held on the second Friday of February to bring importance to mental health, to decrease bullying and recognize when a peer or loved one may need help or a kindness handout.

Students wore purple to demonstrate their commitment to the message of the day. The Student Council and Leadership Club placed flyers around the school, created bulletin boards, pushed out on Parent Square and shared information during advisory periods about the day’s importance. Student Julialyn Huwer read the morning announcements filled with positive messages and encouraged peers to make a card during lunch for someone they care about.

Julialyn said, “Together, we can break the stigma around mental health and support one another.”

School counselors and Leadership Club advisors Eugene Sicoli and Lauren Waldron and school social worker Andrea Monz-Raciti also assisted students with making a bulletin board that held positive messages.

During lunch periods, Student Council and Leadership Club members held a Valentines Day card fundraiser where they offered free P.S., I Love You Day cards and sold lighthouse gifts to accompany this year’s theme.

Not only was the annual event a school success, but kindness also resonated throughout the school making everyone fell more connected and loved.