In Mary Doverspike's" second grade classroom at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception School in Greenville, you'll hear plenty of praise. Not only are her students excelling in their studies, they're making a difference in their community.
"I feel really happy that I can help someone out," said 7-year-old Gavin Wiese.
As part of Catholic Schools Week, Gavin and his classmates participated in Bingo Blessings. The children filled in the spaces on their Bingo cards with different acts of kindness, and if they filled the card, they could get out of following the dress code for a day. Gavin chose to help his neighbor clear the mess after a winter storm.
"Because shoveling snow is kind of hard for older people, and I just wanted to get it done so he can get into his front door," he explained.
Then there's Allie who read books to her sister, Ethan swept his kitchen floor, and Xavier Enriquez wrote a special letter to Miss Doverspike.
"To tell her that she was a great teacher and that she teaches me a lot of things," he explained.
"And then it was signed 'love,' which from a boy is sweet. It's not typical," said Doverspike.
Xavier's letter hangs proudly on their classroom door.
"I re-read those especially after tough days," Doverspike says.
It's an example of how a few simple words can have a lasting impact.
"I sent them all notes at Christmastime, not thinking it would mean a lot, and that was one of the things he remembered, about getting that letter and going to the mailbox and actually having something that had his name on it."
The children also volunteered in shelters for animals and the homeless, and spread joy by visiting seniors living in nursing homes.
Principal Deb Fuller hopes that by instilling these values at a young age, together, her school can help make the world a better place.
"Serving others I think creates within you a peace and a kind heart," Fuller says.
