A sea of blue pinwheels spins gently along Fasken Boulevard, marking another year of childhood awareness and hope at United ISD’s Fasken Elementary School. In honor of Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month, the school’s National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) once again hosted its annual pinwheel planting event, turning a grassy area by the school’s fence into the vibrant Pinwheel Garden of Hope.
The recent event brought together every grade level—from pre-kindergarteners to fifth graders—each student donating $1 to “plant” their symbolic blue pinwheel in support of preventing child abuse. The funds raised, which typically range from $400 to $800 annually, go directly to the Child Advocacy Center of Laredo.
Since 2011, this springtime tradition has united the Fasken community with each classroom led outside by its teacher. The students arrive one by one to collect the pinwheels for planting. They are taught that each spinning pinwheel represents the happy, healthy childhood that they all deserve.
“It makes me feel very proud to be part of the Dragon family and to be the leader here,” said Principal Liliana Barragan. “This event creates awareness for child abuse prevention. Our students get to give, not just receive, with their donation which helps prevent child abuse.”
The blue pinwheel, now a national symbol for child abuse prevention, was chosen for its childlike whimsy—a reminder of the innocence and joy we strive to protect. Every student places a pinwheel with pride and purpose, forming the blue spinning rows that can be viewed and enjoyed throughout the month of April.
Fasken counselor and NEHS Chapter Adviser Laura Canales said the event is more than a fundraiser. “Our honor society members work very hard to promote awareness,” she said. “They do presentations in classrooms to explain the cause and how to participate. The blue pinwheels signify child happiness and respect. We want every student from our school and community to know they deserve to be safe and happy.”
Principal Barragan says the event ties directly into the students’ academic development as well. “It fits into our learning curriculum—students practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing when presenting to their peers. They become more confident and take ownership of the project.”
For students, it’s a great day to be outside with friends for a great cause.
“The kids are very excited,” Canales said. “They love seeing the bright and beautiful pinwheels. They feel proud to be a part of this heartwarming event.”
And that pride extends to the entire community. Parents support their children, and passersby frequently honk their support as they drive by the school.
“Our students look forward to it each year,” said Principal Barragan. “They understand the importance of giving back. They know this is about helping other children, and that’s a powerful lesson.”
For more information on how to help prevent child abuse or report concerns, visit www.childhelp.org or call/text/chat the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.
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