I just received 24 Hidden Heroes stories from students in Mrs. McGonigle’s Grade 7 class at Park Avenue School. We all have much to learn from the insights these students have had. I’ve selected three stories for this week and I’ll have more next week. I know you’ll enjoy hearing from these budding story tellers.

Isaac Mitchell, by Justin Sketchley

I have known Isaac for three years and found him to be a true friend. Here are some of the characteristics that I have seen him display over the years.

One time we were out playing in the snow and noticed there were several driveways left un-shoveled. I told Isaac that there were elderly people who lived there. He suggested we do them a favor and shovel their driveways. We had already done quite a few and made a lot of money but he suggested we do theirs for free. That is just the kind of guy Isaac is,very thoughtful and giving and I, too, am learning from him how to be more charitable.

Isaac is a very courteous generous person. He volunteers his free time to sell poppies for his cadet group and donates money any time he can. He once donated all of his allowance for the tsunami relief fund.

One time we went to MT. Washington in the summer to bike ride and stay in a condo. That was one fun trip. I Crashed into a board walk did a flip then a face plant. Isaac helped me up and got me back on my bike. That's what friends are for. They always seem to be there when you need them

Jillian Fletcher, by Rae Fletcher

Jillian Fletcher is my mother. She is the strongest person I know. She's had cervical cancer and has had eight surgeries. I admire her for her strength and her giving heart.

My mom always tends to put other people before herself. I always go to her for my problems because she's the most understanding person I know. She understands if you make a mistake and won't freak on you if you do.

My mom always tries to make as many positive comments in a day as she can towards friends, life, and me. When she's feeling the blues, I try to return those things to her as much as I can.

My mom is very optimistic, and sometimes I can't believe how she can see only the good side of a bad thing. She's done a lot of amazing things and survived a tremendous amount.

I think she should be noticed for her achievements.

“Bob” by Jade Scotland

My hidden hero is someone whose name I don't know. Let's call him "Bob".

“Bob” is a homeless man that usually walks up and down my street picking up recyclables. I think that makes him a Hidden Hero because he is helping the environment and reducing land pollution. He is doing small things to make this world a better place to live.

Who cares if he has a bad appearance and probably does drugs? Because of "Bob", waste that would normally go into landfills can be used again and again. I can also throw a pop bottle on my lawn and know that the next day it's going to be gone most likely taken by "Bob". It's people like him that help our world in small ways. They make this earth a better place to live.

We're watching you "Bob". Good job!

Each one of the 24 stories touched me deeply. It’s interesting to note that, like Rae’s mother, Jade is able to see the positive side of “Bob” rather than just the negative.

More stories from our Park Avenue students next week.