East School students received a meaningful visit from Regent Roger Tilles on Jan. 19, when he discussed the value of each person’s uniqueness and read a book that supported that theme. Every class in the building, representing kindergarten through grade 5, gathered in the gymnasium for this inspiring and uplifting event that tied in with Unity Day. 

Regent Tilles greeted his audience and expressed enthusiasm for the opportunities he has to speak to students throughout the state. He read the book, “Only One You,” by Linda Kranz, and described the story’s messages about individuality and making the world a better place. 

“You are you, there’s only one you and you stand out wherever he are,” he said.
 
Students returned to their classrooms and painted their own creative rocks, which were based on rock fish featured on the book’s cover. 

“You want to paint your rock to celebrate you and something special and unique about yourself,” Principal Kathleen Connolly instructed. 

PTA members, who donated the materials for the activity, assisted teachers and students, and Regent Tilles visited several classes and witnessed the projects. The rocks will be assembled outside the school to form a path that represents the individuality and unity within East.