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FROM STAFF REPORTS

Hoover City Schools, the city of Hoover and community partners will join together for “Be Kind Week” from Feb. 24-28. This annual initiative strives to building positivity, kindness and connection across schools and the entire Hoover community.

This year’s theme, “Kind People Are the Best Kind of People,” emphasizes how everyday acts of kindness, whether big or small, create a lasting impact. Throughout the week, students, staff and community members will participate in activities designed to uplift and support one another, reinforcing the power of kindness in shaping a stronger and compassionate community.

One of the most significant moments of Be Kind Week is Pink Shirt Day on Wednesday, Feb. 26. Students and staff across Hoover will wear pink to show their commitment to creating a culture of respect and kindness. That evening, Hoover City Hall will be illuminated in pink to highlight the city’s dedication to spreading kindness.

As part of this year’s Pink Shirt Day activities, HCS Superintendent Dr. Kevin Maddox, Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato and other school and city leaders will visit schools across the district to meet with students and staff to discuss the importance of kindness and learn about student led efforts to make a positive impact in the community.

The Stock the Counselors Closets service project is also a key initiative of Be Kind Week that provides essential resources to students in need. Each school will collect snack donations to assist in ensuring that counselors can offer immediate support when students need it most. Donations can be made directly to any Hoover City School during Be Kind Week.

Since its inception in 2017, Be Kind Week has grown into a city-wide movement to remind people that kindness is more than just a one-week event—it’s a way of life.

HCS Mental Health Services Specialist Kathryn Stewart, one of the event’s organizers, shared the inspiring origins of Pink Shirt Day, which began as a simple act of solidarity when students stood up for a classmate who was bullied for wearing pink.

“That one moment sparked a movement that has spread across communities worldwide,” Stewart said. “There is so much in the world we can’t control, but we can control how we treat others. Be Kind Week is a reminder that even the smallest acts, like checking in on a friend, standing up for someone or offering a kind word, can create a ripple effect. I love that our students and community come together each year to make kindness a priority.”

Hoover City Schools Superintendent Dr. Kevin Maddox emphasized the district’s commitment to both academic and personal growth.

“Our mission is to provide all students with opportunities to develop exemplary character and achieve personal academic excellence,” Maddox said. “Academic success is important, but so is character. Be Kind Week reinforces the values of community and respect, helping us create schools where every student feels safe, supported and valued. We are grateful to our community partners for standing with us and making kindness a priority.”

Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato echoed the city’s strong support for Be Kind Week, recognizing the lasting impact of kindness beyond the classroom.

“Hoover is more than a city; it’s a community that cares,” Brocato said. “Teaching kindness isn’t just for kids, it’s a lifelong lesson that shapes who we are and how we treat one another. The City of Hoover is proud to support Be Kind Week and to stand with Hoover City Schools in creating a culture where kindness leads the way.”