Tired of all the negativity she encountered each day through media, a local businesswoman sought to incentivize change.Maggie Hasse wanted to bring more positive influence into the community, and she recognized it starts with younger generations.“I got sick of seeing news stories about kids being bullied and the negativity in society,” lamented Hasse. “I feel like each person has an amazing ability to make a difference.”She learned of a program that promoted kindness among children and pushed for its implementation in local schools. A short while later, seven Warren County school buildings are participating in the Kindness Matters Challenge.“We want to help build a well-rounded kid,” said Daniel Boone Elementary Assistant Principal Jodi Brown. “We want to remind them that there’s much more to being a good person than just academics. It makes them think outside of themselves and be kind and caring.”Kindness Matters Challenge provides incentives for students to display positive character traits. Teaming up with local businesses, Hasse has obtained donations as rewards for students who were recognized demonstrating kindness.“We encourage them to sit by someone new at lunch, play with someone new at recess or say thank you to the secretary,” said Hasse.While it’s not a requirement for students to participate, Brown says students are eager to demonstrate kindness, knowing their names could be drawn for ice cream and other prizes at the end of the month.“It’s helping to promote good citizenship,” said Brown.Hasse says other schools learned of the program and have since come on board. At this point, in addition to Daniel Boone, also participating are Rebecca Boone and Warrior Ridge Elementary schools in Warrenton. Both Wright City East and West Elementary have implemented the Kindness Matters Challenge. And the county’s two private schools, Holy Rosary and Liberty Christian, are also reminding their students that kindness matters.“I’m hoping to expand it next year,” said Hasse. “It’s taken off a lot more than I expected. It’s been so well received.”Warren County R-III School District logo