Essex Tech Launches 2026 Kindness Week With Veterans Event

DANVERS, MA — Essex North Shore will celebrate its annual Kindness Week next week — continuing an annual school-wide tradition centered on service, compassion and community connection.

All three entrances will be decorated with signs, music and bubble machines, with the Hawk mascot greeting students at arrival.

Essex Tech said the goal is to create a positive start to each day as students and staff take part in activities tied to service and hands-on learning.

Kindness Week is designed to reflect Essex Tech’s mission to develop students as skilled professionals and thoughtful citizens.

Students and staff will participate in activities that support local organizations and connect with community members during the week.

"Kindness Week reinforces our commitment to care and community while bringing learning to life for our students," said Superintendent Heidi Riccio. "Whether they're supporting a local organization or connecting with community members, students see firsthand how their skills and compassion can have a lasting impact."

Planned events include a presentation by Josh and Liz Moughan from the DirTY Hands Project, a mental health-focused initiative that engages students in hands-on service projects across the region.

Essex Tech also said culinary arts and hospitality students will prepare and host a veterans luncheon and storytelling event on Moday at 11:30 a.m., giving students a chance to connect with local veterans.

Plumbing students will lead a Career Day presentation for elementary students in Nahant. On Monday from 4 to 5:30 p.m., cosmetology students will collect and donate self-care items and provide wellness services to Girls Inc. in Lynn.

The school is also set to host an on-campus Blood Mobile on Tuesday to support regional health needs.