High Road School Kindness Project Inspires Students

A Season of Kindness at High Road School of Wallingford

This fall, students at the High Road School of Wallingford wrapped up a months-long kindness project with a special visit to the Wallingford Animal Shelter. The mini field trip included dropping off nearly $500 worth of donated supplies for animals in need. The project began with something simple but meaningful: drawings of adoptable dogs.

How the Kindness Project Began

During the Extended School Year (ESY) program, paraeducator John McAvaney, who joined the team in spring 2025, suggested that students create artwork of dogs currently awaiting new homes. McAvaney and his wife are longtime animal lovers and strong proponents of the “adopt, don’t shop” philosophy. Their own rescue dog traveled 15 hours from Alabama to join their family. That passion inspired the students, who quickly embraced the idea and got to work. Their artwork even made a real-world impact – Olaf, one of the dogs they illustrated, was adopted just days after the students’ drawings were shared.

Student Reactions and Real-World Impact

Students were ecstatic when they heard the news. “The kids couldn’t believe their drawings helped a real dog get adopted,” said Education Director Christine Hartwich. “It gave them such a powerful sense of pride and purpose.”

One student said he felt accomplished and “very awesome,” while another shared that he was happy “because the dog has a family now.”

Building Empathy Through Giving

As momentum grew, students began donating their CASE Cash and even their own dollars to raise funds for shelter supplies. Through this process, they learned what it means to care for animals and support their community. One student said he “gained more love for animals” and wished he could adopt them all. Another said that shelter pets “need food, survival items, and toys to play and be happy.” And one High Road family even fostered a dog for several days.

Shopping for Shelter Supplies

Transition and high school students helped shop for the items, selecting wet and dry dog and cat food, scratcher posts, student-made fleece blankets, kitty litter, laundry detergent, treats, toys, water bowls, and more.

Delivering Donations to the Animal Shelter

Four ESY students visited the shelter to deliver the donations and meet the animals. Many were excited to see kittens, while others asked eagerly whether more dogs – like a favorite named Meatball – had been adopted.

“This project brought out the absolute best in our students,” Hartwich said. “They showed empathy, teamwork, and genuine joy in helping others.”

And a special thank you to animal control officer Mr. Mitch, who scheduled the visit for High Road School students and made their trip interactive.