Mrs. Amra always says the best thing about the Sward community is that "Sward Shows Up!" Well this is a heartwarming story about one second grader's act of kindness for one of her classmates. At Sward Elementary, the spirit of compassion and friendship shone brightly when a second-grade student received an extraordinary gift—one that turned disappointment into pure joy.
Zayineb, a second grader in Mrs. Budewitz's class, a cheerful and determined student with a radiant smile, had recently been entered into an online contest to win an adaptive bicycle—a special bike designed to support her physical needs and help her ride like other kids her age. Her family, friends, and teachers all rallied behind her, voting daily and spreading the word. There were so many votes cast for Zayineb but unfortunately another child won the contest. But that's not where our story ends...Aria, a classmate in Mrs. Opiola's 2nd grade class who's family also voted for Zayineb, talked as a family about how they felt they needed to do something about getting Zayineb a bicycle. Aria said "my mom and dad contacted some people on the internet and found a bike for Zayineb and my dad bought it for her. I was so excited to give it to her." Aria's family surprised Zayineb after school with her new bike. The moment brought tears to the eyes of teachers and parents alike. Mrs. Budewitz and Mrs. Opiola, their second-grade teachers, called it “the most beautiful example of pure-hearted generosity we’ve ever seen in a classroom.” Aria simply said, “I just wanted her to have the same fun the rest of us do. We had a playdate yesterday and we rode our bikes together it was so much fun!"
Kindness is a simple act with the power to change someone’s day—and sometimes, their entire life.