By SIERRA HORTON

Manteca Unified

Communication specialist

Lathrop Elementary students set out on a mission to spread kindness, one card at a time. 

Their goal? To create 500 heartfelt messages for children receiving care at St. Jude’s Research Hospital.

 In just under two weeks, they didn’t just meet their goal — they far exceeded it, sending an incredible 680 handmade cards filled with messages of encouragement and love. 

 In just under two weeks, they didn’t just meet their goal — they far exceeded it, sending an incredible 680 handmade cards filled with messages of encouragement and love. 

 The initiative began in Justin Ledezma’s classroom, where students embraced the idea of making cards as part of their Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum.

What started as a class project quickly transformed into a schoolwide effort as students challenged their peers to join in. 

 "Social-emotional learning plays a vital role in elementary education, helping students develop empathy and kindness," Ledezma shared. 

"When we discussed the idea of making cards for St. Jude’s, my class didn’t just embrace it—they took it a step further,” he said.

“They challenged the entire school to join in, setting a goal of 550 handmade cards. Their enthusiasm and generosity exceeded all expectations, and, in the end, we created an incredible 680 cards to bring joy to children in need." 

Principal Mrs. Tillotson praised the students’ dedication and the way they embodied the school’s values. 

 "This project is a beautiful example of how social-emotional learning comes to life in our school community," she said. "I'm so proud of our students for showing such compassion, leadership, and initiative. What started as a classroom idea grew into a schoolwide effort that reflects the very best of who we are—kind, caring, and connected. Their dedication to spreading joy to others is truly inspiring." 

The success of this initiative serves as a reminder that