‘Be kind. Just be kind.’ Honoring Robin Cicchetti’s inspiring legacy
Her love of learning, empathy, and diverse reading interests ultimately gave students the tools to learn more about themselves and others.
My colleague Robin Cicchetti was a beloved and inspiring school librarian at Willard Elementary School and at Acton-Carlisle High School, and her recent memorial service filled me with gratitude for her many gifts and reflection about the essential role and the enduring impact that library staff have on our community.
Robin made our school libraries a welcoming, lively place for students to build life skills and form new friendships while collaborating on projects in small groups or by studying independently in quiet spaces. Robin crafted a toolkit of engaging methods to foster growth in literacy, critical thinking, and research skills. Students and staff met with her regularly to say hello or seek guidance while she developed exciting new coursework and mentored student clubs after school with the right mix of humor and wisdom. She was a nurturing educator; she respectfully listened, asked thoughtful questions, and prompted young people to consider different perspectives.
Robin shared her love of learning, empathy, and diverse reading interests, ultimately giving students the tools to learn more about themselves and others. Most importantly, Robin was a humanitarian who summarized her personal philosophy in five simple words: “Be kind. Just be kind.”
Lastly, I want to extend my thanks to all the dedicated, creative staff that make our school and town libraries such a vibrant and beloved community resource.
Priscilla Guiney
Wright Road
