By Amanda Meloy
Lindbergh Elementary School

Jacquelyn Boakai and Cynthia Propsom are fifth graders at Lindbergh Elementary School. They were nominated and received the Kindness Award from the Children’s Theater of Madison (CTM). Each was presented with a certificate, four tickets to “A Christmas Carol” — including a backstage tour and picture with the cast —and two tickets to each of CTM’s shows. CTM presents the award to recognize young people “who have made a positive difference in their school, community or the world.”

Jacquelyn and Cynthia do just that. They are top leaders in the school, have received student of the month awards, and always follow the school expectations: safe, kind and ready to learn. They assist and mentor others as well. 

Cynthia and Jacquelyn are kind and respectful to whomever they meet, including classmates, younger students, teachers, families and school visitors. They are on the safety patrol. They are always ready to learn, ask thoughtful, detailed questions and are curious about the answers. They are not afraid to fail; they stand up to the challenge and for what is right.

The two are responsible for the Thursday morning announcements at school, and work together to create, write and video record the announcements. They are on time without having to be reminded and are very professional.

Each year the Lindbergh community participates in a service learning project. A group of Lindbergh fourth- and fifth-graders volunteered to collect cans and coins to give to the Goodman Community Center for Thanksgiving baskets. Cynthia and Jacquelyn jumped at the chance to help. The students created flyers and posters and collected coins and cans. They also created an engaging video about why they give back to their community. 

Jacquelyn and Cynthia are a true team. They listen to each other, help and collaborate together, and make the school a positive place. They are hard workers, excited to learn and lead by example. They participate and show up, whether it’s attending summer library or performing in the school talent show. Most importantly, they are kind in everyday situations. They are great role models for other students. Their lasting impact of helping others is felt at Lindbergh and will be felt wherever they go. 

Way to go, Jacquelyn and Cynthia. 

More information on the Kindness Award can be found at ctmtheater.org/get-involved/kindness-campaign.