Mesa View student receives regional anti-bullying award

A fourth grade student at Mesa View Elementary School recently won a regional award from an anti-bullying organization for her conduct and positive interaction with others.

Keilee Ann Kelly was named HERO Anti-Bullying Student of the Year by the Anti-Bullying Institute, a charitable foundation run by the Riverside Medical Clinic. The organization educates young people about the dangers of bullying, holds annual conferences and honors deserving students.

According to the group's website, the HERO Awards ceremony recognizes those "who have made a positive impact by addressing and preventing bullying — whether it’s building awareness of bullying prevention, inspiring and empowering others to take positive action, or advocating for those who need support."

Carmen Kaas, assistant principal at Mesa View Elementary in the Romoland School District, said Keilee is very deserving of the award and is a positive example to others. (In photo at left, Kaas poses with Keilee and her father).

"Keilee Ann Kelly is an exceptionally intuitive student," Kaas said. "She walks in with a smile every day and brings cheer to her peers and staff here at Mesa View Elementary. She is the first to offer help to others, and when someone is in need, she can sense their pain and is willing to be there if they need support.

"Keilee is a student who pushes herself and asks what more she can do to not only reach her goals, but surpass them and at the same time wants others to surpass their goals and supports them with all her energy in doing so as well. She is a student that others aspire to emulate, and one that has made the school and her classroom a peaceful sanctuary for all."

According to Kaas, Keilee's conduct has had a definite impact on other students.

"All students consider her a friend and when she sees a peer sitting alone on the Buddy Bench, she always approaches them and invites them to join her and whoever she is playing with at the time," Kaas said. "She introduces new students to others and takes a vested interest in others' likes and hobbies/talents. She gives genuine compliments to peers and staff and helps others see the best in themselves.

"Keilee has changed the dynamic of our campus by constantly treating others with respect and kindness. We here at Mesa View have witnessed her change the experience of students who struggled with making friends and feeling included to one of acceptance and inclusion. We could not be more grateful to have Keilee as one of our Kindness Ambassadors here at Mesa View Elementary!"