Kindness at Cold Lake High: Februarys Theme

As February unfolds, Cold Lake High School is focusing on one of the most powerful forces we can share—kindness. From February 18th to 21st, our school will celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Week, a time to inspire each other, spread positivity, and strengthen the bonds within our school community.

Throughout the week, there will be a variety of activities, all designed to remind us of the small yet significant ways we can make someone's day a little brighter. Students will take part in creating positive environments, like covering our school with uplifting sticky notes and organizing fun spirit days, where we dress to spread kindness—whether that means wearing team jerseys, sporting tie-dye, or channeling our inner rockstars.

One of the highlights will be our “Thank You Note Station,” where students can take a moment to express appreciation to someone who deserves it. There will also be an exciting opportunity to paint kindness rocks, a fun activity that symbolizes how even little things can make a lasting impact.

Other initiatives include morning high fives to greet students with a burst of positivity, a "Take What You Need" bulletin board filled with empowering quotes, and Stall Messages that will spread kind words throughout the school. A Kindness Cafe will provide a relaxed space for students to connect over lunch, fostering new friendships. And don’t forget the Dare Challenge, where students can complete small tasks to boost kindness—such as giving a compliment to a friend.

As we celebrate kindness, let's remember that it’s not just about big gestures—it’s the everyday acts that create a compassionate environment. A smile, a word of encouragement, or a small note of appreciation can have an incredible ripple effect. Let’s keep these acts going all month long, showing that kindness is always in style.

Also, mark your calendars for February 26th, when we’ll come together to wear pink for Pink Shirt Day, a day dedicated to standing up against bullying and fostering kindness in every form.

Join us in making this February one of connection, compassion, and community. Let’s be kind to ourselves, to each other, and to everyone around us!

Tips for Cultivating Kindness: For Students and Parents

Kindness isn't just something we can celebrate during special events—it’s a practice we can weave into our daily lives. Below are some practical tips for both students and parents to help cultivate kindness, creating a more positive and supportive community for everyone.

For Students:

1. Start with Small Acts
   Kindness can be as simple as offering a smile, holding the door for someone, or asking how someone’s day is going. Even the smallest gesture can have a ripple effect.
   
   
2. Compliment Someone Every Day
   Everyone loves to be appreciated. Take a moment each day to compliment a classmate, teacher, or even a family member. Whether it’s their outfit, effort, or something they’ve done, a sincere compliment can brighten their day.
   
   
3. Practice Active Listening
   Sometimes, the best way to show kindness is simply to listen. Be present when someone is talking, give them your full attention, and show empathy. This builds trust and makes others feel valued.
   
   
4. Get Involved in Acts of Kindness at School
   Participate in initiatives like Random Acts of Kindness Week, but don’t stop there! You can create your own mini kindness projects, such as leaving positive notes for your peers or offering help to a classmate struggling with schoolwork.
   
   
5. Be Mindful of Your Words and Actions
   Words can be powerful, and they can hurt just as much as they can heal. Think before you speak, and try to choose words that uplift others. If you see someone being left out or bullied, be the one to stand up for them.
   
   
6. Help Without Being Asked
   Sometimes, people just need a helping hand. Whether it’s picking up dropped books, offering to share materials, or helping a friend with a problem, doing so without being prompted shows you care.
   
   

For Parents:

1. Model Kindness in Your Own Actions
   Children learn by example. When parents demonstrate kindness in their everyday lives—whether it’s through words, gestures, or attitude—children are more likely to adopt these behaviors as their own.
   
   
2. Encourage Empathy
   Help your children see the world from another person's perspective. Encourage them to ask questions like, “How would that make you feel?” or “What can I do to help?” This teaches them to consider others' emotions and needs.
   
   
3. Praise Acts of Kindness
   Reinforce positive behavior by acknowledging and celebrating moments when your child shows kindness. This not only makes them feel good but also strengthens their commitment to acting kindly.
   
   
4. Promote Kindness as a Family Value
   Make kindness a priority in your household. Encourage your children to perform small acts of kindness each day—whether it’s helping with chores, being patient with siblings, or doing something thoughtful for a neighbor.
   
   
5. Create Opportunities for Volunteering
   Volunteering as a family is a wonderful way to give back to the community and instill a sense of empathy and responsibility. Whether it’s donating to a local food bank, helping a neighbor with yard work, or participating in charity events, volunteering teaches kids the value of helping others.
   
   
6. Help Them Manage Negative Emotions
   Kindness doesn't mean ignoring negative emotions. Teach your children to express their feelings in healthy ways, and guide them toward solving conflicts peacefully and kindly. Understanding that frustration or anger can be channeled into constructive action is an important life lesson.
   
   

For Everyone:

• Be Patient and Forgiving
  We all make mistakes. Being patient with others and forgiving those who may hurt or disappoint us is a form of kindness that contributes to personal growth and healthier relationships.
  
  
• Practice Gratitude
  Take time each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for. Showing appreciation for the people and experiences in your life fosters a positive mindset and encourages kindness.
  
  

By making kindness a regular part of your routine, whether you’re a student or a parent, you help create a culture of compassion that can transform our school community and beyond. Let’s continue to support each other, lift one another up, and make the world a little brighter—one kind act at a time!

Connect with Your Counsellor

Have questions, need guidance, or just want to connect?

Our Counsellors are:

Erin MacDonald (A-K)  erin.macdonald@nlsd.ab.ca

Kimberly Turchyn (L-M) kimberly.turchyn@nlsd.ab.ca

Reach out by email or call 780-639-0039.

Let's continue our journey of kindness and positivity together.

Here's to a February filled with heartfelt gestures, shared smiles, and a tapestry of kindness. Let's make the world brighter, one act of kindness at a time!