When the kindergarten class welcomed Beth Jung as a guest speaker, the room grew quiet with curiosity-and then bright with understanding. Beth lives her life without hands and feet, and she came to show our students that challenges don't have to stop us; they can shape us.
Beth's message centered on three big ideas our students could immediately grasp:
Pivot with Purpose - Life changes. Sometimes plans don't work out the way we expect. Beth modeled what it means to pivot - to adjust our approach and keep moving forward. For five- and six-year-olds who are learning new skills every day, this simple idea makes resilience feel doable: If one way doesn't work, try another.
Adapt and Discover - Beth demonstrated that tools strategies, and creativity help us do things differently - and still do them well. The children saw that "different" can also mean "innovative," and that problem-solving is a skill they can practice in the classroom, on the playground, and at home.
Courage + Kindness - Beth reminded us that courage isn't loud; it's steady. It's taking the next step even when it's hard. She also encouraged students to be kind to people who look and live differently. That kindness starts with noticing, listening, and including - habits our school strives to build from day one.
Thank You, Beth! Beth is remarkable, and we're grateful she shared her time and perspective with our kindergarteners. Her visit strengthened our school's commitment to inclusion, problem-solving, and compassion - cornerstones of a community where every child can thrive.