Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Pelham Girl Scout Troop 2286. The Pelham Examiner publishes press releases in the form received as a service to the community

Last month, Pelham Girl Scout Troop #2286 and the Colonial Class of 2022 joined forces to create and contribute a “Kindness Rock Garden” to Colonial’s new outdoor classroom space. The goal of the rock garden is to spread positivity and kindness throughout the school and community at-large.

“We hope other students will see this garden and begin to spread more kindness in our community,” said Troop #2286 member and recent Colonial fifth grade graduate Lexi Cullen. “Also, if someone isn’t feeling well mentally, they can go there and see that someone cares.”

A true collaboration, the custom raised garden bed was built by the fifth grade Girl Scout troop under the guidance of troop leader Annette McCann and Colonial mom and neighbor Stephanie Kaplan. Ms. Preston, Colonial’s art teacher, led the entire fifth grade in the creation of inspiring and kind hand-painted rocks, which fill the structure with color and positivity.

One message at just the right moment can change someone’s entire day, outlook, life.

“I am so proud of Troop #2286 for first recognizing the need for such a garden in their school and community,” said Ms. McCann. “Then for thoughtfully bringing this meaningful project to life, leading from start to finish, and earning the distinguished Girl Scout Bronze Award.”