MONROE, CT — On International Happiness Day, the Stepney Elementary community came together to celebrate joy and explore ways to cultivate happiness. Led by music teacher Keri Salustri, the second-grade class hosted a school-wide assembly centered around the theme of happiness.
Principal Ashley Furnari opened the assembly by sharing what was bringing her happiness that day. She highlighted the sight of kindergarten and fifth-grade students sitting together, with older students serving as mentors to their younger peers.
She also introduced the school’s commitment to supporting LIVFree, an organization dedicated to bringing joy to children battling pediatric cancer. “By donating just $1, you are helping to spread happiness to others,” Furnari encouraged.
Salustri and the second graders then took center stage, kicking off the event with a performance of “Happiness.”
“Although the words in this song may be a little silly, each person finds happiness in their own unique way,” Salustri said.
The second graders also read “I Wish You Happiness” by Michael Wong, holding up signs with inspiring words from the book. A crowd favorite followed — a lively performance of “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces.
Before the final song, school counselor Kim Petrafesa delivered an important message about taking control of one’s happiness. She encouraged students to recognize personal strategies that can help shift their emotions when they’re not feeling their best self.
“For me, it’s spending time reading. Others may enjoy listening to music or going outside,” Petrafesa said, reinforcing lessons she has taught in classrooms about students finding their own unique happiness strategies.
The celebration concluded with a joyful rendition of “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” performed by the second-grade students on their kazoos. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with laughter, music, and meaningful reminders about the power of happiness, according to Furnari.
Those wishing to join the Stepney community in spreading joy, may consider making a donation to LIVFree and supporting children in need.
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