Moraine Elementary student celebrated as ‘Kindest Kid in America’
A fourth grader at Moraine Elementary School was recognized for her acts of kindness with a custom book that was written by the building’s secretary.
“Brave Bella” is a book written by secretary Billie Douglas after receiving an email from Jessie Hansen, director of the Kindest Kid in America program. The program has published 34 books focusing on students from 18 states.
Douglas decided to follow up with Hansen and used an online form to nominate Bella Claypool, a fourth grader at the school, for the recognition.
“Douglas has worked closely with hundreds of families as a trusted and reliable school resource. Her position allows her to see the many facets of students,” a release from the district said.
Hansen came to Moraine Elementary on Wednesday, Nov. 5, to talk about her own experiences with bullying, while interacting with the students. At the end, she revealed that Bella was selected as “Kindest Kid in America for Nov. 5, 2025.”
“Bella has chosen to be a leader. She has chosen to be kind. For other students to see Bella being recognized for being awesome, it inspires a contagious, kind feeling — and that is our mission,” Hansen said.
Douglas attributed former Moraine principal Debbie DeBlasio and district assistant superintendent Susan Miller with helping choose Bella.
“Once you meet Bella, her personality, her sweet disposition, it’s contagious,” Douglas said.
“Brave Bella” follows a young girl living in Pennsylvania who tries her best to be a friend to everyone through acts of kindness, while facing challenges that children normally face, such as getting braces.
“I hope to teach others to be kind and help their heart to feel good,” Bella said.
