The Veeder Elementary School community gathered for a ceremony of remembrance in honor of a late student, Hunter Hanley. At the ceremony, district leaders dedicated two benches next to the Chrissy Aidala Pavilion where students can sit, rest, or just enjoy the outdoors.

This dedication was particularly special because it gave the fourth grade class an opportunity to learn one of life's most important lessons: the power of kindness and resilience. Most importantly, they saw how a family's strength and love could transform tragedy into something meaningful.

"Today's dedication of benches in memory of Hunter helps us remember and symbolically reflect on the beauty this community can create from something so sad and so unfathomable,” said Thomas Kachadurian, assistant superintendent for instruction. 

Kachadurian continued, "Tammy, Todd, and Victoria Hanley continue to be the greatest and most remarkable sources of strength and inspiration to me and are role models to our Colonie family. We learn from them everyday that it takes tremendous dedication, courage and resolve to commit to creating and filling this world with good." 

The benches are physical reminders that students can choose to be sources of good in their community, just as Hunter's family has chosen to be. 

“Spread joy, happiness, and kindness to everyone you meet and bring that positive mindset with you wherever you go. That’s what this morning is about, simple acts of kindness sending a wave out into the future to connect and impact other,” said James Vardaro, principal of Veeder Elementary.

As the fourth graders move on to fifth grade, they carry with them the lessons of this ceremony; that being kind matters, and that communities can find strength in one another.