Writing on the side of a school bus is usually discouraged, but middle school learners got the green light to decorate three of our buses as part of Unity Day activities on Oct. 22.

Fifth through seventh graders worked together to cover the buses with hundreds of heartfelt messages promoting inclusion, acceptance and kindness – messages like “Love One Another,” “No Bullying” and “Be Kind.”

National Unity Day, observed each year in October, is dedicated to promoting kindness and an end to bullying in schools across the country. Students, educators and communities participate by wearing orange and taking part in activities that celebrate diversity and inclusivity.

While the spirit of unity is a permanent part of the Mineola school community, the ink itself was washable and is expected to rinse away after a few rainstorms.