New Families Show Compassion, Create Valentines for Children’s Hospital

A group of future students of Matthews Charter Academy and their families came together for an act of kindness this month. The students, newly enrolled for the 2024-25 school year, are learning right away what it means to embrace Moral Focus virtues.

The families created Valentine’s Day cards for children at Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina, to brighten someone’s day. The event was held at the Sunflower Café and Outreach in Mint Hill.

Mary Funderburk, admissions representative for MCA, said new families are often surprised to learn about all the events the school holds.

“It is important to share with our families the things we do to support our communities,” she said. "We don't just teach virtues in the classroom, but we put them into practice. It is important for scholars and parents to give back to the community and it helps us to empathize with others and what they are going through.”

NHA’s nine Moral Focus virtues are excellent conversation starters at these events, and help families realize the opportunities for student growth.

“It absolutely creates good conversation about the Moral Focus we teach and helps families see that we are about educating the entire child – academically as well as their character development.”

The cards were delivered so they could be distributed to children at the hospital in time for Valentine’s Day.

Great work spreading kindness, Matthews!