On Oct. 2, second and 10th grade students throughout the East Rockaway School District joined schools across Long Island in celebrating Be the Change Day, an initiative honoring the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi and promoting peace, kindness and positive action.

As part of the program, students participated in lessons focused on Gandhi's message, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Teachers led discussions about what it means to be a peacemaker in school and in the community, encouraging students to reflect on how their everyday actions can make a difference.

At Centre Avenue Elementary School, second graders listened to stories about Gandhi and worked together to create circle maps, brainstorming the qualities of a peacemaker. Students then applied their ideas by designing colorful bookmarks featuring words, symbols and messages that promote kindness, respect and positive change.

The completed bookmarks will be donated to school libraries, where they will serve as reminders that even small acts of kindness can help create a more peaceful world.

Meanwhile, East Rockaway Junior-Senior High School's 10th graders participated in activities that explored the importance of peaceful leadership and making a positive impact in their communities.

Be The Change Day is a partnership between the Nassau County Council of School Superintendents and the Shanti Fund Organization, which promotes peace and enlightenment through education. Through meaningful conversations and creative projects, East Rockaway students embraced the spirit of the day and demonstrated how they can be agents of positive change in their schools and beyond.