The William H. Barton Intermediate School has been named a Distinguished Kindness School through the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation. This recognition reflects a culture where students are learning not only academics, but also how to show up for one another with care and courage.
“When students feel seen, valued and respected, something remarkable happens,” said Brooke Jones, vice president of The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation. “Connection deepens. Confidence grows. Learning strengthens. Kindness becomes more than a nice idea; it becomes a daily practice.”
The William H. Barton Intermediate School is one of just 482 schools in the world to receive this distinction.
Since the start of the school year, Queensbury third, fourth and fifth grade students have signed a Kindness Pledge, spent a day writing inspirational chalk messages on the school sidewalk, and also participated in classroom lessons and initiatives supported by resources from RAK.
As a Distinguished Kindness School, WHBI will continue building on these efforts throughout the school year, finding new ways to promote kindness across classrooms, hallways and the broader school community.
“Our students and staff show that kindness is more than something we talk about; it’s something we put into action every day,” said school counselor Jason Blackman. “This recognition reflects our entire school community and our shared commitment to making WHBI a place where everyone feels valued, supported and included.”