HamletHub Interviews Former Newtown Teacher & Founder of Classes 4 Classes - Kaitlin Roig DeBellis

Classes 4 Classes (C4C) is a social networking tool and platform for teachers to dynamically teach students: kindness, compassion and empathy. It was created by former Newtown teacher Kaitlin Roig-DeBellis, who, after experiencing a tragedy immeasurable in its scope, realized that there are no words of explanation, and there never will be. “Instead, we need to make a choice for ourselves, our students, our nation, our world. If we choose love, kindness, empathy, compassion and hope, which I so believe we should, then we need to make a point to teach these things,” explains Kaitlin. And, so Classes 4 Classes was born.

Here, Kaitlin talks cherished C4C moments, her personal role model, and taking her beloved nonprofit across the country.

1.  By “Choosing Hope” you have become an important role model to so many - young and old. Who is your role model?

I am fortunate to have had many positive role models in my life. If I were to pick just one, it would have to be my Mom. My Mom taught me from a very early age that it doesn’t matter what you have-but what you give. That this is your gift, your legacy, your life’s purpose. That what you give, is what you get, so give a lot. This was instilled in me from a very young age and shaped the path I ultimately took. Growing up, my Mom was always nurturing, kind, and loving, however, I always knew her expectations were high. With her expectations came support and encouragement. They were unwavering. She gave me the greatest gift you could ever give a child: She believed in me and provided me with guidance. She always saw my light and encouraged it to shine. In writing 'Choosing Hope' it allowed me to share with others many of the lessons my Mom taught me: even when you find yourself in darkness-there is always light.

2. Tell me about your very first C4C connection.

The very first was with the incredible teachers who I began sharing my vision and ideas with in early January 2013. Each teacher was enthusiastic and excited to be a part of C4C from the very beginning. They understood it and wanted to be a part of it. Their passion for my vision reminded and encouraged me in the mission I had-to engage students in learning to be kind, compassionate and empathetic-so that there isn’t room for hate. I am so grateful to each of those teachers for believing in C4C before anyone else did.

3.  Your recent collaboration with The Kraft Family Foundation has allowed C4C to expand throughout New England. Are you currently looking for additional partnership as a way to take C4C to the entire U.S.?

We are so grateful for the generosity, and the belief  that The Kraft Family Foundation have to support organizations like ours. They use their platform to bring attention to crucially important issues and we are honored that they feel ours is one of those.

Robert Kraft, Owner, New England Patriots, along with his family, had this to say"I can't think of a more important lesson for children to learn first hand. Even at a young age,children should be aware that we are all connected and that everyone has the power to take action and help others.”

We are absolutely looking for other organizations whom we can collaborate and partner with, in order to spread our mission to all 50 states. We thank those who already have a strong voice, for giving us one! If you are interested in supporting us in this way (or any way) please email us at: info@classes4classes.org

4.  Favorite C4C story or classroom connections?

There are so many!  My favorite story would have to be of two C4C classes, 3rd and 4th graders. Their project was up on our site and donations were starting to come in (all of our projects are crowd-funded by outside donors). The students went to their teacher and said ‘We want to do more.’ Their teachers asked, ‘Well what did you have in mind?’ Their reply still gives me the chills.

They shared with their teachers that they didn’t want to simply sit back and let others fund their project (for another class) they wanted to take an active role. They suggested a Tag Sale on the upcoming Saturday (see photo #1). They would each bring an item that they no longer used and they would sell them.

Their Tag Sale raised over $800 for their project(s) which all went to the other classrooms. THAT is the spirit of what C4C is all about: connection, giving freely to others, being kind, compassionate and empathetic. I can’t think of a better illustration.

5. Between speaking engagements and C4C expansion, you are a very busy lady. What do you do for fun?

I love being busy. What’s the expression? If you want something done, give it to a busy person. And, for me, C4C and speaking to audiences are my passions. They are who I have always been at my core: an educator.

When I’m not engaged with either (which is rare), I enjoy spending time with my friends and family. I enjoy being outside, the beach is my absolute favorite place. I like to travel. I love to cook and eat. When I have the time, curling up with a good book, I’m all about non-fiction I like to apply things to my own life.

6.  Anything you wish I asked?

I want to thank you for believing in our mission in C4C and allowing us to share it with all of your followers! It means the world to me!

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Submitted by New Fairfield, CT

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