In a world where kindness sometimes feels in short supply, first-grader Blakely Stacey stands out as a beacon of compassion at West Side School. At just six years old, this remarkable young student has already made such an impression that Principal Dewar describes her as "the type of student that you would like 100 students just like her. She is nice, helpful, and kind."

With bright eyes and a gentle demeanor, Blakely approaches each school day with enthusiasm and a desire to help others. "I like my teacher and my friends, and I'm happy I'm here," she says with a smile that seems to brighten the room.

Now in her second year at West Side, Blakely has found her stride in first grade. Under the guidance of her teacher, Ms. Collins, she excels in her favorite subjects—math and reading. Already mastering both addition and subtraction, Blakely shows a natural aptitude for numbers. But it's her love of reading that truly lights up her face.

"I just like the words a lot and the speed, and I like to learn a lot more," she explains, naming "The Gingerbread Man" as one of her favorite stories. Her enthusiasm for learning shines through in every response.

What sets Blakely apart, however, isn't just her academic abilities but her natural inclination to support her classmates. This year, she has accumulated "bunches and bunches" of points in the school's positive behavior program by consistently demonstrating helpfulness and kindness.

When asked about how she likes to help others, Blakely responds with wisdom beyond her years: "If they're behind with their work, I try to help them as much as I can. Sometimes I help them understand stuff that they don't understand and I do."

Even more impressive is Blakely's commitment to encouraging her peers. She confirms that she regularly helps others believe in themselves, offering words of encouragement when classmates struggle with confidence.

Blakely comes from a household where service to others is modeled daily. Her mother works as a nurse at SIH, demonstrating the importance of helping those in need. Her father, whom she describes as "brave," works at the local coal mine. With two younger sisters at home, Blakely naturally falls into the role of helper and leader.

Her appreciation for her school community is evident. When asked what she likes best about West Side, she pauses thoughtfully before responding, "I like a lot of stuff about the school. I like to have this teacher, and I'm just grateful to be here."

This gratitude extends to her ideas about how others might help her school. Rather than focusing on material needs, Blakely suggests that adults could "help the teachers" and "help other people understand stuff like I do" or "help them learn more that they don't know."

With a packed lunch that includes strawberries, peanut butter sandwiches, and the occasional cosmic brownie as a treat, Blakely approaches each day with optimism and purpose. "I just try to be as good as I can at school," she says simply, as if kindness were the most natural thing in the world.

In a community like Harrisburg, young people like Blakely Stacey represent the best of what education can nurture—not just academic achievement, but the development of character and compassion. If Principal Dewar's wish for "100 students just like her" ever came true, West Side School would indeed be an extraordinary place.

For now, the school is fortunate to have this one remarkable first-grader who goes the extra mile each day, helping classmates succeed and brightening the hallways with her positive spirit. Blakely Stacey may be small in stature, but her impact on West Side School is immeasurable.