As we wrap up the Thanksgiving season, we’re thrilled to announce that the 2025 Veles Academy Gratitude Challenge has been an incredible success — far beyond what we imagined. What began as a simple idea to spread positivity turned into a powerful community moment filled with kindness, connection, and hundreds of heartfelt messages from students, families, teachers, and supporters.
🌟 A Community That Showed Up
This year’s Gratitude Challenge brought together people of all ages — from elementary students to high schoolers, parents, educators, and even community members who discovered Veles Academy for the first time.
Over the course of the Thanksgiving week, our live Gratitude Board received a huge variety of submissions. Some were sweet and simple (“my mom,” “school,” “my puppy”), while others were deeply meaningful (“opportunities to learn,” “teachers who believe in me,” “friends who helped me through tough times”).
Every post added a new splash of positivity to the board — complete with colorful fall themes, random leaf emojis, and the warm autumn visuals that made this challenge feel truly special.
🍂 Why the Gratitude Challenge Matters
The heart of Veles Academy has always been about supporting students, families, and educators not only academically, but emotionally. Gratitude is one of the most powerful tools we can teach young learners — it strengthens resilience, boosts happiness, and reminds us to focus on the good.
This challenge did exactly that. We watched students slow down, reflect, and express genuine appreciation. Parents mentioned that their children asked at dinner, “What are you grateful for today?” Teachers told us that their classes loved seeing their words appear on the board in real time.
🍁 The Numbers Tell the Story
Here’s a look at the impact:
Over 50 unique gratitude submissions throughout the week
High engagement across the website, especially from students in Grades 6–12
Participation from people in multiple cities and states (and countries)
Incredible positive feedback from families and educators
The Gratitude Challenge not only brought joy — it brought the Veles Academy community closer together.
🌤️ Gratitude That Extends Beyond November
While the Thanksgiving season has ended, the spirit of gratitude doesn’t have to. Many families told us that their children continued talking about gratitude at home, and several teachers shared that they plan to add weekly gratitude moments in their classrooms using the inspiration from the challenge.
At Veles Academy, we hope this becomes an annual tradition — one that grows bigger and more meaningful each year.
❤️ Thank You for Making It a Success
To everyone who participated, supported, shared, or encouraged the Gratitude Challenge: thank you. Your words brought positivity to so many others and truly made this a memorable event for Veles Academy.
Here’s to more moments of kindness, reflection, and community — this season and all year long.
Date Published: 12/1/25