This week on the secondary school level at Central Academy Middle School, Read Mountain Middle School, James River High School, Lord Botetourt High School, students are promoting a “Week of Kindness, based on “Rachel’s Challenge.” Each day a presents a different event, wearing hats, chalking dreams, signing banners all to be kind to each other. The events will culminate on Friday, Dec. 14 at the Lord Botetourt and James River High School boy’s basketball game. Events begin at 5 p.m.

All week long, students will be gathering items for the Carilion Children’s Clinic. The general public is encouraged to bring items on the list to the game on Friday as well. The list is as follows: Crayons, colored pencils, journals, Hot Wheels, Coloring books, cars and trucks, baby dolls, gift cards and stuffed animals.

Rachel’s Challenge is based on the writings of Rachel Joy Scott, the first student killed in the Columbine High School  massacre. Scott left writings to inspire generations to come and  her message of kindness and hope has inspired millions around the world. For more information, check out the official Rachel’s Challenge website.