Kick Off With Kindness Event Aug. 22 For AACPS Families, Public

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD — In the hopes of starting off the school-year off on a positive note, the Crofton-based group Kindness Grows Here has teamed up with Anne Arundel County Public Schools to host Kick Off With Kindness, a back-to-school event designed to inspire children and adults alike to approach each day with a mindset that extends acceptance and inclusion to everyone.

Kick Off With Kindness will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 22, at Crofton Middle School. The event will feature remarks from AACPS superintendent George Arlotto and a presentation from Frank Murphy, author of the newly released book “A Boy Like You,” which encourages children to disregard the stereotypical “molds” into which society sometimes wishes for them to fit and celebrate their unique qualities.

The event also will include an interactive presentation by Kristen Caminiti, founder of Kindness Grows Here, that will encourage kids and adults alike to think about why kindness is so important.

“As we should, we spend countless hours every year working to provide the best instruction and materials to our children,” Arlotto said in a statement. “There are things, however, that can’t be taught in textbooks and must be part of the culture of our schools. Kindness is the foundation for many successes in life, and we are pleased to be able to partner with Kindness Grows Here to start the school year on such a positive note.”

School supplies for students in need also will be collected at the free event that is open to the public. Pizza and snacks will be provided, so those wishing to attend should register here.