Everyone is unique, and everyone is important.

That statement is special to Windsor Elementary School here in District 25 as the five hundred six Wildcats painted rocks to express the virtue of individuality.

To begin, each student heard Principal Shelley Fabrizio read the Linda Kranz book “Only One You”, and used that story as motivation to add a unique design to his/her rock. The rocks shine bright from those last day of school paintings, and will be placed in a courtyard following renovations, highlighting the unique strengths of the students.

The event was coordinated by Mrs. Stella, as classes participated throughout the day. All staff was involved in the morning.

“I think they’re going to love seeing them next year,” Principal Fabrizio said.

Kindergarten through fourth grade students looked forward to the fun that awaits them next year, while fifth graders mused at the thought of middle school.

“Fifth graders are super excited about middle school, and kindergartners are super excited about being here for a full day for first grade," Fabrizio said. "I said to some of the kids ‘twenty-five and a half hours until you are in first grade!”  

According to Mrs. Fabrizio her students are innately super helpful. That makes her smile.

“They want to be leaders,” she said. “Many children come up to me every day and say ‘can we help you do something?’ They go to the lost and found, they’ve taken stuff off of the wall for the end of the school year… there’s a lot of energy. They’re really thoughtful, and kind.”