Colorful rocks are appearing around Edmund W. Miles Middle School as a way of promoting peace and kindness. Every student was recently invited to paint a rock during his or her lunch period. The result was dozens of rocks in many different colors with inspiring messages such as “Love,” “Believe,” “Don’t Give Up,” and “Follow Your Dreams.”

“It’s a nice project that all the students can do together,” said guidance counselor Kerry Kearney, who organized the project along with special education teacher Renee Silon. “We’re always looking for ways to promote peace, unity and kindness, and for our students this is a visual reminder.”

Ms. Kearney said that the project was planned for October which was National Bullying Prevention Month. The rocks are being spread around the outside of the school to create a Kindness Garden. Several teachers and staff members also painted rocks. 

Ninth-grader Tylaya L. said that the rocks would bring beauty to the school and show that Amityville students are committed to kindness.